Mélenchon Slams ECB Rate Hikes as Economic Risks Mount for France

French far-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon has expressed his discontent with the European Central Bank's (ECB) decision to raise interest rates. Speaking on September 7, 2026, Mélenchon highlighted the risks that these rate hikes pose to economic growth in France.

Mélenchon's criticism comes as the ECB is widely expected to deliver a second hike in borrowing costs to combat inflation. This move has sparked concerns about its potential impact on the French economy, which narrowly avoided recession in the first half of 2026.

The politician emphasized that the ECB's policies are exacerbating the economic challenges facing France and other European countries. Mélenchon has been a vocal advocate for debt relief and has proposed measures to address the country's financial struggles.