France's Political Turmoil: Barnier's Leadership and Economic Challenges

Marine Le Pen has warned French Prime Minister Michel Barnier to negotiate budget concessions or face a no confidence motion that could topple his government. The National Rally demands include raising pensions with inflation and cutting France's EU budget contribution. Barnier's government is at risk if the RN does not abstain from a no confidence vote, potentially leading to a political crisis and impacting French debt and stocks. Finance Minister Antoine Armand cautioned that emergency legislation might be needed to maintain a budget if the government falls.