URGENT: Nicolas Sarkozy Sentenced to 5 Years in Landmark Libya Campaign Finance Scandal.

Breaking News: Nicolas Sarkozy Sentenced to 5 Years in Landmark Libya Campaign Finance Scandal Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been sentenced to five years in jail for criminal conspiracy related to millions of euros in illicit funds from late Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi. The Paris criminal court delivered the verdict on [current time] at the Palais de Justice. Sarkozy, 70, will spend time in jail despite his claim that the case is politically motivated. Judge Nathalie Gavarino found Sarkozy guilty of allowing close aides to contact Libyan officials for financial support during his 2007 election campaign. However, the court acquitted him of passive corruption and illegal campaign financing. Sarkozy served as President of France from 2007 to 2012. The prosecution alleged he promised to help Gaddafi combat his reputation with Western countries in exchange for the funds. This is a significant blow to Sarkozy's legacy and raises questions about the extent of his involvement in the scandal. The ruling means Sarkozy will begin serving his sentence immediately, even if he chooses to appeal. His lawyers have already announced plans to file an appeal, which could delay the start of his prison term. This is a developing story. We will provide updates as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*