Macron Faces Pressure After PM Resignation

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to appoint a new prime minister following the resignation of Michel Barnier, who was ousted after failing to placate far-right leader Marine Le Pen. Le Pen's alliance with the left to bring down Barnier has highlighted her growing influence and her aim to unseat Macron before the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, Macron faces increasing economic pressures and political challenges, including managing perceptions of his government’s effectiveness. In Switzerland, an immigration deal with the EU marks a significant step toward broader cooperation. As Brexit continues to shape British politics, Keir Starmer plans to strengthen defense ties with the EU by attending a leaders' summit in February. Lastly, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius acknowledged calls from Poland for increased military spending amid skepticism towards joint EU defense financing.