Praise for Reviled Vichy Leader Lands France’s Macron in Hot Water—Again
Comments over Marshal Pétain spark another public quarrel that complicate president’s efforts to overhaul economy
PARIS—French President Emmanuel Macron waded into controversy Wednesday by praising Philippe Pétain, who oversaw France during its Nazi occupation, as a “great soldier” during World War I.
Mr. Macron made the comments to reporters accompanying him on a week-long tour of French battlefields ahead of the Nov. 11 centenary of the World War I Armistice. This weekend France is due to hold a ceremony commemorating the group of marshals, including Marshal Pétain, who led the French military during the conflict.
...