France, March 29 -- A directive targeting French companies with US government contracts has raised concerns about the widening reach of President Donald Trump's policies abroad. With transatlantic relations already under strain, French officials are pushing back, questioning the implications of Washington's hardline approach.

The Trump administration has issued a directive to French companies holding US government contracts, instructing them to comply with an executive order that bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes.

The firms have reportedly been asked to confirm their compliance by completing a separate questionnaire entitled "Certification Regarding Compliance With Applicable Federal Anti-Discrimination Law."

This ...