Macron tells Meloni to ‘stay in lane’ over remarks on far-right activist’s death in France

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseFebruary 19, 2026 at 03:07 PM

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French President Emmanuel Macron rebuked Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for commenting on the death of Quentin Deranque, a far-right activist who was fatally beaten in Lyon, France, last week. Deranque's death, allegedly at the hands of far-left activists, has heightened political tensions in France ahead of upcoming elections. Meloni expressed shock at the killing, calling it "a wound for all of Europe." Macron, speaking from India, responded by telling Meloni to "stay in [her] own lane" and emphasized that France condemns all forms of violence, regardless of political affiliation. He stated that violence is never justified, especially when it threatens the republic.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

India 40% New Delhi 40% Italy 50% Lyon 60% National Rally 70% Quentin Deranque ×270% Giorgia Meloni ×280% France ×290% Emmanuel Macron ×390%

Keywords

far-right 90% emmanuel macron 80% political tensions 70% giorgia meloni 70% violence 70% far-left 60% france 60% political commentary 50% municipal elections 50%