Thomas Jefferson, who was an American diplomat in France and Democratic Republicans sympathized France in these times. But Federalists did not. So there was an "inner battle" in America. We have to understand that the French revolution was getting more and more extreme and bloody, so Americans were leaning towards Federalists' point of view on this situation. Then, on February the 1st 1793, France declared war on GB, Spain and Holland. American people didn't like that at all. Washington had to make a decision: support the old friend, France or not, as he didn't want to wage a war so quickly and blindly. There was sort of an old treaty, that the US and France had to help each other. (France helped the US to achieve independence). Federalists said that this treaty was accepted with Louis XVI and now he is dead, wich means no help from US. (Cheeky bastards). :) But Democratic Republicans thought that this treaty was accepted with the PEOPLE of France. George Washington made a BRILLIANT move. As I've said, France attacked first by declaring war. He simply pointed to the fact that the US had to help France ONLY if France WAS attacked. All this was according to the treaty. Washington was absolutely right. In 22nd of April 1793, George created Declaration of neutrality towards European conflict. But he still accepted France as a French Republic from now on. Washington found the optimal way out of this difficult situation without ruining his relations with American parties. (Federalists and Democratic Republicans). P.S I hope this helps! Sorry for my bad English. :)