France's Sarkozy pleads innocent at appeals trial over Libya campaign funding

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy appeared at an appeals court hearing on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, to defend himself against charges that he solicited Libyan financing for his 2007 election campaign in exchange for improving Libya's international image after deadly bombings. Sarkozy denied all allegations, maintaining his innocence despite prior convictions on related corruption charges. The case reflects ongoing scrutiny of political funding practices in France and raises questions about how wealthy nations negotiate with authoritarian regimes. The appeals trial represents a final chapter in a years-long legal battle that has shadowed French politics since Sarkozy left office in 2012.