French Prime Minister Michel Barnier Ousted

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier was ousted by a no-confidence vote after just three months in office, marking the shortest tenure in the history of France's Fifth Republic. The motion was backed by both leftist and far-right parties in a deeply fragmented parliament, following Barnier's controversial push for an austerity budget. President Emmanuel Macron now faces the challenge of appointing a successor capable of navigating this political turmoil and passing the 2025 budget amid calls for his resignation. The political landscape poses a risk of instability, with potential demands for early elections growing louder as financial markets react to the uncertainty. Macron's prior attempts for clarity in leadership through snap elections have backfired, resulting in a hung parliament that complicates governance. Analysts suggest Macron must act quickly to stabilize the situation and restore confidence in his administration.