Political Turmoil in France: A Historic Crisis

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is set to resign following a vote by far-right and leftist lawmakers, marking France's second major political crisis in six months. Barnier's swift resignation stems from tensions over an unpopular budget. This turmoil weakens President Macron ahead of a pivotal period.

In a dramatic turn of events, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is poised to step down this Friday. This resignation comes after a coalition of far-right and leftist lawmakers ousted him, pushing France into its second political crisis within a mere six months.

Barnier, recognized for his role as the European Union's Brexit negotiator, will become the shortest-serving prime minister in modern French history. His administration faced backlash for enforcing a contentious budget through a fragmented parliament without a formal vote, aiming for 60 billion euros in deficit reduction.

President Emmanuel Macron's political standing is notably weakened as Barnier resigns amid calls for his own resignation. The absence of a stable government and an impending 2025 budget poses significant risks, not just for France but for a European Union already facing challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)