France sends warm welcome to George and Amal Clooney

The French government has publicly defended its decision to grant citizenship to George and Amal Clooney after criticism from some political figures.

In a statement issued Dec. 31, France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs said the couple completed the same formal process required of all applicants. 

Officials confirmed the Clooneys underwent security checks, regulatory interviews at the prefecture, and paid the required tax fees before being naturalized. 

“We are delighted, like many French people, to welcome George and Amal Clooney into the national community,” the ministry said.

The statement followed remarks from junior interior minister Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, who questioned the optics of the decision during a radio interview, suggesting it raised concerns about fairness and potential double standards in France’s naturalization system. 

While she acknowledged Clooney’s ties to France, she said authorities must be mindful of the message such decisions send.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez pushed back, confirming the Clooneys were naturalized by decree and describing the move as “a great opportunity for our country.” 

According to French media, the process was initiated following a recommendation from the foreign affairs ministry.

The news also drew a reaction from U.S. President Donald Trump, who commented on social media. Clooney later responded with a statement referencing the upcoming U.S. midterm elections.

George and Amal Clooney have lived part-time in France since purchasing an estate there in 2021, alongside properties in England, Italy and the United States.