Millions watched Nicolas Sarkozy travel to Paris’ La Santé prison to begin a five-year sentence for conspiring to seek Libyan funds for his 2007 campaign, a verdict he denies. The first French leader since World War Two to be jailed, he posted on X that an “innocent man” was imprisoned. Cameras followed him leaving home with Carla Bruni and riding past the National Assembly. Media reactions split sharply across outlets. His lawyer immediately sought his release; judges have up to two months to decide, and he is expected to spend at least three weeks to a month behind bars.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.