“Interest rates would rise. The financial markets are worried about France. They don’t know which way our country is headed. … France’s attractiveness would decline. In recent years, since 2015, France has become more attractive to foreign investors. … But since the dissolution of parliament, investors have been asking themselves: should they invest elsewhere? Should they wait and see if France remains hospitable? Some projects have already been cancelled, others have been scaled back or postponed. The fall of the Barnier government would only fuel this spiral of mistrust.”

“The appointment of a new prime minister and a new government would significantly curb Marine Le Pen’s party’s influence. Right now, everyone realises that the future of the government lies in her hands, since it can only stay in power thanks to her goodwill. She is playing this card well by raising the stakes. If a new government is appointed in the near future, whether on a joint (undoubtedly more left-wing) basis or as a ‘technical’ government, her influence would be severely limited, if not reduced to zero.”

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Several political stories dominate the bloc’s news today. The ongoing crisis facing the French government leads most websites. France is grappling with a mounting fiscal crisis, with government debt levels and budgetary constraints pushing the country into uncharted territory. PM Michel Barnier’s choice to force through the budget was always going to be an issue, and amid the turmoil far-right leader Marine Le Pen has emerged as a key figure capable of stabilising the political landscape.

France’s financial struggles carry significant implications for the EU. France’s inability to adhere to fiscal targets undermines broader EU economic stability.

The results of Ireland’s snap general election are expected to be tight as counting continues and no clear winner has emerged. 

Georgia is in its fourth night of protesting as the country finds itself at a crossroads. The government’s push for a “Brexit-like” mandate clashes with growing demands from a minority faction advocating for closer ties with the European Union.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to accept U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed Ukraine peace…