WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement Sunday after French authorities declared Emmanuel Macron the winner of the country’s presidential run-off election:

“I congratulate Emmanuel Macron for his victory in today’s French presidential election and applaud the French people’s rejection of isolationism and embrace of a Europe whole, free, and at peace. France has made a clear choice in support of the democratic principles and values that have served as the bedrock for European security over the past seven decades.

“Today’s result however was much bigger than the candidacy of Mr. Macron – it sent the strongest possible message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that his worldview has once again been rejected by European voters who embrace democratic values, human rights, and institutions such as the European Union.  In spite of allegations of Russian interference similar to that seen in our country last year, democratic institutions across France proved resilient.  I hope that French authorities will conduct a full investigation into the scope of Russian interference in order to build even better defenses for the future and to share lessons with other democracies vulnerable to Russian aggression. 

“I congratulate the French people on this historic day and reiterate my appreciation for the enduring friendship between the United States and France.” 

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