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France is in political turmoil after Prime Minister Michel Barnier resigned just three months into his term. A no-confidence motion, supported by both left-wing and far-right lawmakers, toppled his government, marking the first such defeat since 1962.
Barnier's downfall was triggered by his controversial decision to bypass parliamentary approval for his 2025 budget, sparking outrage. Leftist leader Mathilde Panot criticized the budget as a provocation to voters, while far-right leader Marine Le Pen called Barnier's approach rigid and dogmatic.
President Emmanuel Macron now faces the daunting task of appointing a successor who can navigate a fragmented parliament. With no majority coalition, Macron's centrist bloc has been squeezed by opposition forces, diminishing his authority.
The political crisis also threatens France's economy. Public debt has reached 111% of GDP, and borrowing costs briefly surpassed those of Greece. A new budget must be passed by December 21 to avoid financial disruption, but uncertainty looms as Macron addresses the nation on Thursday.
