 This drew widespread condemnation from the U.S. which responded by threatening sanctions against the EU unless the embargo was continued.On 29 May 2005 a referendum was held in France to decide whether the country should ratify the proposed Constitution of the European Union.The result was a victory for the No campaign, with 55% of voters rejecting the treaty on a turnout of 69%, dealing a devastating blow to Chirac and the UMP party.