Nazi Salute Controversy Forces Bardella's CPAC Exit

French far-right leader Jordan Bardella canceled his speech at the CPAC conference, citing a Nazi salute by a speaker as the reason. Steve Bannon, allegedly involved, denied the claim, while Bardella's decision underlines RN's attempt to forge ties with Trump's administration.

Controversy erupted at the CPAC conference on Friday when Jordan Bardella, leader of France's far-right National Rally (RN), cancelled his speech. Bardella, 29, cited an alleged Nazi salute by a speaker, reportedly Steve Bannon, as the reason for his withdrawal.

Bardella's visit to the United States aimed to strengthen RN's affiliation with former President Donald Trump, despite previous complexities in their relationship. Bardella claimed a gesture made by a speaker was a provocation toward Nazi ideology, leading to his immediate decision to cancel his participation.

Steve Bannon refuted the accusation, asserting that his gesture was merely a wave. This incident underscores RN's efforts to distance itself from its historical connections to antisemitism and reshape its image as it eyes future political successes, including the upcoming French presidential elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)