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‘France on verge of economic and political meltdown’ – Paper Talk Europe

EU

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.

Canada to impose sanctions against those suppressing Georgia protests

Canada

Georgia sees its fifth night of consecutive protests against the government’s decision to suspend negotiations to join the European Union. At a press conference with Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Jolie expressed Canada’s solidarity with the Georgian people, and said they “are very concerned about what Russia is trying to do in Georgia.”

Weapons trade booming worldwide, especially in Russia

Palestine

In 2023, the total revenue of the world’s 100 largest weapons producers grew to $632 billion (€598 bio) a 4.2% increase from 2022. This is according to a new report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute SIPRI, which analyzes the business figures of the 100 biggest arms makers.