Pierre Laval quotes

Pierre Laval was a French politician who played a controversial role during World War II. Known for serving as Prime Minister and collaborating with Nazi Germany under the Vichy regime, his actions remain highly debated in French history. He was eventually tried and executed for treason following the liberation of France. Here are 11 of his quotes:

I feel that an understanding could be reached with Germany which would result in a lasting peace with Europe and believe that a German victory is preferable to a British and Soviet victory.

Pierre Laval

But the same intelligence compels Germany to practise the same policy.

Pierre Laval

I defy anyone - and I have said this to the Germans - to build a solid, articulated, and viable Europe without France's consent.

Pierre Laval

I want to tell you that I think this war is a great mistake.

Pierre Laval

It is in order that France may find her place in the new Europe that you will respond to my appeal.

Pierre Laval

I am a peasant from the Auvergne. I want to keep my farm, and I want to keep France. Nothing else matters now.

Pierre Laval

In the event of a victory over Germany by Soviet Russia and England, Bolshevism in Europe would inevitably follow. Under these circumstances I would prefer to see Germany win the war.

Pierre Laval

We have given most of Europe to Hitler. Let us try to hold on to what we have got left.

Pierre Laval

Workers of France, it is for the freedom of the prisoners that you will go to work in Germany! It is for our country that you will go in large numbers!

Pierre Laval