Michel Barnier Appointed New Prime Minister of France

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Michel Barnier, the former chief Brexit negotiator, as the new Prime Minister of France, concluding a nearly two-month search for a leader amid political deadlock following snap elections. Barnier is a veteran conservative from the Les Républicains party and has previously served as a cabinet minister and European commissioner. His nomination comes after Macron rejected calls for a progressive leader from the leftist coalition that secured the most seats in the National Assembly but lacks a majority. Barnier's primary challenge will be to navigate a divided legislature and secure critical finance bills, as the government faces the urgency of upcoming budget talks. This appointment marks an attempt to stabilize the French government after months of uncertainty resulting from the fragmented parliament. Macron's decision reflects his commitment to maintaining stability over appeasing the leftist demands.