French far-right leader denies wrongdoing as trial over alleged embezzlement of EU funds begins

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - French far-right leader Marine Le Pen and her National Rally party are facing a pivotal trial in Paris, accused of embezzling European Parliament funds.

Le Pen, a prominent figure in French politics and a potential 2027 presidential contender, arrived at court on Monday, firmly denying any wrongdoing, according to local media reports.

"We have not violated any political and regulatory rules of the European Parliament," Le Pen declared, adding she would present "extremely serious and extremely solid arguments" in her defense.

The case centers on allegations that Le Pen’s party, formerly known as the National Front, misused European Union funds between 2004 and 2016.

Prosecutors claim that money allocated for parliamentary aides was diverted to pay staff who instead worked for the party on political matters, a violation of EU regulations.

The nine-week trial, which also implicates 27 top National Rally officials, has the potential to severely damage Le Pen's political ambitions.

Although she stepped down as the party’s leader three years ago to broaden her appeal as a mainstream candidate, Le Pen remains a significant force in French politics.

Her party has seen considerable electoral gains at both the national and European levels in recent years, including in the June-July legislative elections, where it secured a prominent opposition role.