Former [Donald Trump](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump) on Sunday claimed that immigration was the primary cause of the violent unrest that broke out in [France](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France), and he urged French officials to close their borders and adopt tougher migration policies.
**What sparked the unrest?**
The disturbances erupted on Saturday, culminating in the torching of a historic town hall and resulting in roughly 1,800 arrests. The scale of the disorder has heightened pressure on President [Emmanuel Macron](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmanuel_Macron) as the nation heads toward elections slated for six months later.
**What did Trump say?**
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: “France is burning! The immigration of people from an entirely different world, people with hatred in their hearts, has shattered that once great country. Close your borders and take control, before it is too late!”
**How did other US politicians respond?**
Vice‑presidential hopeful [J.D. Vance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._D._Vance) echoed similar sentiments on Saturday, stating, “Western liberals imported the third world into France and other countries in the name of diversity and compassion. They ignored fundamental questions of assimilation and compatibility. They were told it would lead to this and they didn’t listen.” He added, “I pray that France, a beautiful country of amazing people, will stop this madness before more of its landmarks burn.”
Vance, considered a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race, also linked the issue to the upcoming US midterm elections on November 3, where Republicans are projected to face challenges.
Trump’s remarks came shortly after Vance’s comments, reinforcing a narrative that blames immigration for the French turmoil.