France Faces No-Confidence Vote Amid Budget Crisis

France is facing a potential government collapse as Prime Minister Michel Barnier is expected to lose a no-confidence vote over his controversial budget aimed at reducing the public deficit through €60 billion in tax hikes and spending cuts. The budget has drawn opposition from both the far left and far right, with Marine Le Pen's National Rally confirming support for the left-wing coalition's no-confidence motion. Finance Minister Antoine Armand has labeled the situation a 'turning point,' warning that uncertainty surrounding the budget could destabilize the country's economy, which is already under pressure. If Barnier's coalition falls, it would mark the first time a French government has been ousted by a no-confidence vote since 1962. Barnier is set to address the nation soon, as market reactions to the potential collapse have already begun to impact France's stock and bond markets.