French Presidential Candidate Valls Criticizes Fillon for 'Pro-Russian' Stance

Francois Fillon, the presidential nominee of French The Republicans party, might not be able to protect French interests properly due to his friendliness toward Russia, Manuel Valls, former French prime minister and a potential candidate from the left at the 2017 presidential election, said Wednesday.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — According to Valls, France had to continue dialogue with Russia, but in a more assertive manner, to help put an end to the suffering of civilians trapped in an ongoing conflict in Aleppo.

"I see a strong pro-Russian sentiment in Francois Fillon that makes me think he would not protect properly the independence of France," Valls said in an interview to Brut outlet.

During the center-right primaries, Fillon repeatedly stated that there was no threat from Russia, Moscow should be a partner in anti-terror fight in Syria, while the European sanctions against Russia should be lifted.

The ruling Socialist Party is preparing for two rounds of primaries in January. Former Prime Minister Manuel Valls is among the declared candidates for the Socialist Party's nomination.

The French presidential election will take place in April and May 2017.

Never miss a story again — sign up to our Telegram channel and we'll keep you up to speed!