I have the solution.   Let's send the OP back to the pub for some more pints. I'm sure that he and his cohorts can come up with a motive for US manipulation of French politics--if they have more to drink.

Just don't know how we'd ever find out just how the US--as the supreme puppetmaster---is pulling strings constantly all over the world--if it weren't for the intellectual giants to be found in British pubs.

But this time don't forget to take LH with you--for the connection to the "oligarchy". And Mr. Bridge for the link to the BA bastard capitalist conspiracy.   Ah yes, and Jack Campin for the Sudetenland parallel.    But don't take Greg F unless you plan to wind up in the gutter after leaving the pub.

Sure is nice to know, though, that the IMF head himself is blameless in this--after all, he was set up.

Of course.