Eric Ciotti, leader of France’s conservative Republicans party, has called for a nationwide coalition between his party’s candidates and Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN) for the upcoming parliamentary elections.

“We express similar views, so there’s no need to fabricate opposition,” Ciotti said on TF1 television Tuesday.

This marks the first instance in modern French politics where a traditional party leader has supported an alliance with the far-right RN.

On Sunday, President Emmanuel Macron announced elections for June 30, with a second round on July 7. This decision comes after the RN garnered more than twice the number of votes compared to Macron's centrist coalition in the EU elections.

Ciotti disclosed that he had discussions with RN leaders Le Pen and Jordan Bardella before making the announcement. He emphasized that the aim is to ensure the Republicans (LR) attain enough seats to form a parliamentary group.

“A form of alliance is necessary, and that is what I propose,” Ciotti stated, adding, “This aligns with the wishes of a vast majority of voters.”

Le Pen commended Ciotti's “bold decision” and his “sense of responsibility,” expressing hope that many LR members would support him.

The call from Ciotti, who represents the more conservative faction of LR, might create a split within the party. Centrists within LR have already indicated opposition to such a move.

Olivier Marleix, leader of LR in the lower house of parliament, declared he wouldn’t support “any agreement” with a far-right group and demanded Ciotti’s resignation.

The National Rally is expected to become the dominant force in the snap elections scheduled in three weeks, although it may not achieve an absolute majority.

Macron’s office delayed a significant press conference initially planned for Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday. However, it emphasized that the national vote would present a choice between “Republican forces on one side and extremist forces on the other.”

In an interview with Figaro Magazine, Macron ruled out resigning “regardless of the election outcomes,” and brushed off a question about potential recklessness in dissolving parliament and calling for quick elections. He stated that his decision was made in the best interest of France and expressed readiness to engage in a direct debate with Le Pen.