Paris/Washington – A French researcher was denied entry into the United States and deported after U.S. authorities found messages on his phone criticizing President Donald Trump’s research policies, the French government said Wednesday.
French Education Minister Philippe Baptiste expressed concern over the incident, stating that the researcher was on an official assignment for France’s National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) and had traveled to attend a conference near Houston.
According to diplomatic sources, the researcher—who specializes in space studies—arrived in the U.S. on March 9 but was subjected to a random screening at the airport. During the check, U.S. officials searched his professional laptop and phone, allegedly uncovering messages in which he discussed the Trump administration’s treatment of scientists.
These exchanges were reportedly interpreted as demonstrating “hatred toward Trump” and “potentially qualifying as terrorism.”
Researcher Deported, FBI Investigation Dropped
The scientist’s electronic devices were confiscated, and he was sent back to Europe on March 10.
A source familiar with the case said he was accused of sharing “hateful and conspiratorial messages”, which allegedly led to an FBI investigation. However, the probe was later dropped, and no charges were filed against him.
French Government Reacts
The French Foreign Ministry responded by acknowledging that the U.S. has sovereignty over its immigration and security policies but said it “deplores this situation.”
In a statement, the ministry emphasized France’s commitment to freedom of expression and academic cooperation, adding that it would continue to support open dialogue between researchers.
Neither the U.S. government nor the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has commented on the incident. However, it raises concerns over scientific exchange, academic freedom, and the potential impact of political views on visa policies.
