France has a new government, but political tensions remain high. President Emmanuel Macron appointed Sebastien Lecornu, 39, as the country’s fourth prime minister in just one year. Lecornu, a close ally of Macron, must now lead a minority government without a clear majority in Parliament. His main challenge is to survive a possible no-confidence vote while facing pressure from both the left and the far-right.
The cabinet includes some familiar names. Bruno Le Maire, who was finance minister until last year, is now the new defense minister. He will focus on supporting Ukraine and strengthening European security against Russia. Roland Lescure becomes the new finance minister, taking on France’s growing deficit and debt problems. Meanwhile, Bruno Retailleau continues as interior minister, Jean-Noel Barrot stays as foreign minister, and Gerald Darmanin remains justice minister.
Lecornu will give a major speech to the National Assembly on Tuesday. He has promised not to force the budget through with special powers but instead to seek compromise with both sides of Parliament.
Protests have already erupted nationwide against spending cuts, including one that shut down the Eiffel Tower last week. France’s political future looks rocky as instability continues.
