Eric Ciotti, the former president of the French political party Les Républicains (LR), has announced his departure from the party, citing dissatisfaction with its alignment with President Emmanuel Macron's government.

Ciotti, who had previously attempted to maintain his leadership through a legal battle, expressed disappointment in the party's integration into what he describes as a "macronist" government under Michel Barnier.

Despite his efforts to transform LR by forming the Union of the Right for the Republic (UDR) and aligning with the far-right National Rally, Ciotti felt compelled to resign, criticizing the lack of independence within the new government.

He has called on right-wing supporters to join his new movement, UDR, which he claims is rapidly growing in membership.

Ciotti's departure marks a significant shift in the French political landscape, as he aims to establish a distinct political identity separate from the current government's influence.