Macron Calls Trump's Claims on French Riots 'Stupid' and 'Completely False'

French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected Donald Trump's claim that Muslim immigrants are behind unrest in France, calling the remarks "completely false" and "stupid" on Oct. 21. He denied foreign interference in the events but acknowledged foreign manipulation of information. Macron said France was not invaded by "hordes of migrants and Islamists," and confirmed he included Trump among leaders making unacceptable remarks. He accused U.S. politicians in election campaigns of exploiting France for political gain, while also condemning the riots and looting himself. The unrest began Oct. 17 with over 500,000 people protesting rising living costs and fuel prices, turning violent when looters exploited crowds. Trump had claimed Paris would become a "Muslim city," while French opposition leader Marine Le Pen criticized Macron's response as denying reality.