France criticized the United States over a human rights vote, then issued a quiet apology.
The exchange began after the Trump administration blocked a new French ambassador to Washington.
France’s official social media account had posted a mocking message about the U.S. position.
The post drew attention as diplomatic tensions between the two countries remained high.
The Trump administration responded by refusing to approve the incoming French ambassador.
That decision left the French diplomatic mission without a confirmed top envoy in Washington.
France later expressed regret for the social media post, according to officials familiar with the matter.
The apology was not announced publicly and came after behind-the-scenes discussions.
The episode highlighted how quickly online statements can escalate into diplomatic disputes.
Both sides have not commented publicly on the blocked ambassador or the apology.
