French Parliament Nears Ouster of PM Bayrou Amid Budget Crisis

French Prime Minister François Bayrou is expected to lose a crucial no-confidence vote after just nine months in office, marking a significant political setback for President Emmanuel Macron. Bayrou's proposed austerity budget, which aims to cut €44 billion in spending to reduce France's deficit, has faced broad opposition from both left- and right-wing parties, including criticism over unpopular measures such as scrapping two public holidays. This will be the second time in less than a year that a French prime minister has been ousted, with Macron potentially needing to appoint his fifth prime minister in under two years amid a deeply divided National Assembly. Macron, barred from running in 2027, faces growing domestic instability and declining popularity, with many French citizens calling for his resignation. Despite these challenges, Macron continues to emphasize his international leadership, particularly in supporting Ukraine, while urging political forces in France to maintain responsibility and stability. The political turmoil follows a snap election last year that resulted in a fragmented parliament and ongoing deadlock, fueling widespread public discontent and planned protests.