France has issued a warning regarding the resurgence of terrorist threats in Europe leading up to the Paris Olympics scheduled for next year.
During his visit to the United States, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin sought increased cooperation from Washington in addressing these growing concerns.
Darmanin emphasized the current “times of significant risk,” citing the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, France’s reduced presence in Africa, and the reemergence of ISIS as contributing factors.
The purpose of his two-day visit to Washington and New York was to strengthen police and judicial collaboration between France and the US in combating terrorism and serious crimes.
Darmanin underscored the importance of not losing sight of what Europe perceives as its primary threat: Sunni terrorism, even as the United States may be focusing more on domestic challenges such as white supremacy, recurring shootings, and conspiracy-related incidents.
Throughout his visit, Darmanin held meetings with Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. He also visited the FBI training center in Quantico, Virginia.
In New York, the French Interior Minister met with Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell to discuss matters related to public order and security arrangements for significant international events. Notably, France is preparing for the Olympics, the Rugby World Cup, and an upcoming visit by Pope Francis to Marseille later this year.
