Omar El Sayed - World Editor

U.S. Ambassador to France Charles Kushner spoke with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Tuesday, following a diplomatic dispute sparked by his failure to attend a formally requested meeting, according to the French Foreign Ministry.

The meeting request stemmed from concerns raised by the French government regarding comments reposted by the U.S. Embassy in Paris relating to the death of Quentin Deranque, a 23-year-old far-right activist who died from head injuries sustained in clashes with counter-protesters in Lyon on February 12. The U.S. Embassy shared statements originally issued by the Trump administration that characterized the incident as involving “terrorism” and “left-wing violence,” prompting the summons from Minister Barrot.

Kushner’s initial failure to appear at the scheduled meeting on Monday led France to announce that government ministers would no longer grant him direct access, a measure intended to underscore the seriousness of the diplomatic breach. “In light of this apparent failure to grasp the basic requirements of the ambassadorial mission and the honour of representing one’s country,” the French Foreign Ministry stated, access to ministers would be suspended. The ministry clarified that Kushner could continue to perform other diplomatic duties and maintain “exchanges” with officials, but would be excluded from direct engagements with government leadership.

Minister Barrot had publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with Kushner’s conduct, describing the ambassador’s absence from the meeting as a “surprise” and stating it would “naturally affect his ability to carry out his mission in our country.” The French Foreign Ministry had formally summoned Kushner to explain the U.S. Embassy’s decision to amplify the Trump administration’s comments on the Deranque case.

The situation marks a further deterioration in Franco-American relations, which have experienced friction over trade tariffs, the war in Ukraine, and differing perspectives on European security. Kushner’s appointment itself has been met with some scrutiny, as he is not a career diplomat but a real estate developer and former attorney who served time in prison after pleading guilty to tax evasion, witness tampering, and illegal campaign contributions before receiving a pardon from former President Trump in 2020.

As of Tuesday evening, the French Foreign Ministry has not disclosed the content of the conversation between Kushner and Minister Barrot, nor has it indicated whether the suspension of access to government ministers has been lifted. The U.S. Embassy in Paris has not issued a statement regarding the meeting.

The United Kingdom is implementing a new electronic visa system, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), for visitors from countries that currently do not require a visa for short stays. Effective February 25, 2026, all U.S. Citizens traveling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business, or short-term study – even those simply transiting through – will be required to obtain an ETA prior to travel. This change aims to enhance border security and streamline the immigration process, according to officials.

The rollout of the ETA system marks a significant shift in UK entry requirements, aligning the country with similar programs in place in the United States and Australia. The UK government describes the ETA as a digital permission to travel, distinct from a visa and does not guarantee entry into the country. The cost of an ETA is currently £16, allowing multiple journeys to the UK over a two-year period, or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. More information about the application process can be found on the UK government website.

What is an ETA and Who Needs One?

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel document that grants permission to travel to the UK. It’s required for visitors who do not currently need a visa for short stays of up to six months. Eligible visitors include those traveling for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study. The U.S. Embassy in the UK has issued a routine message detailing the new requirements, emphasizing that travelers without an approved ETA may be denied boarding by their airline or entry into the UK.

The requirement extends to travelers who are merely transiting through the UK, specifically those who pass through UK passport control. But, those transiting through Heathrow and Manchester airports without going through passport control are currently exempt. British and Irish citizens, including those with dual citizenship, are not required to obtain an ETA and must travel with a valid UK or Irish passport.

How to Apply for an ETA

Applicants can apply for an ETA online or through the UK ETA app, available on both Google Play and the App Store. The application process requires the passport used for travel, an email address, and a valid credit or debit card. Applicants will need to upload or take photos of their face and passport during the application process. Applying for someone else is possible through the UK ETA app if they are present, or online if they are not. The UK government website provides detailed instructions on the application process.

According to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), most applicants receive a decision within a day, though it can take up to three working days. Applicants are advised to check their spam or junk email folders if they haven’t received a decision within the specified timeframe. The ETA reference number is 16 digits long and will be sent via email.

Geopolitical Context and Regional Stakes

The introduction of the ETA system reflects a broader global trend towards enhanced border security measures. Similar programs, such as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the United States and the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) in Australia, aim to pre-screen travelers and identify potential security risks before they arrive. For the UK, this initiative comes amid ongoing concerns about national security and illegal immigration. The move is not expected to significantly impact diplomatic relations with the United States, given the reciprocal nature of border security measures between the two countries.

The timing of the rollout, just over a month after the initial announcement on February 12, 2026, has prompted some concern among travelers and travel agencies, as reported by Forbes and TravelPulse. Travelers are urged to apply for their ETA well in advance of their travel dates to avoid potential disruptions.

What to Expect Next

The UK government has indicated that the cost of an ETA may increase to £20 in the future, though a specific timeline has not yet been announced. Officials will likely monitor the implementation of the system closely and make adjustments as needed to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Travelers should continue to check the UK government website for the latest updates and guidance on the ETA requirements.

Have you already applied for your ETA? Share your experience in the comments below, and please share this article with anyone planning travel to the UK.