Brussels watches as Barnier reveals government to navigate political crisis

Newly-appointed French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has revealed his government, keeping much of the pro-Macron agenda while making key concessions to the far-right Rassemblement National (RN).

With a no-confidence vote looming, Barnier faces immense pressure to balance urgent budget reforms amid rising deficits and demands from conservative and far-right parties. The next few weeks are crucial for France’s political stability, as delays in presenting the 2025 budget raise concerns within the European Commission.

Which French ministries is Brussels keeping an eye on, and what’s left of Macron's influence both domestically and within the EU? To look into these questions, we’re joined by our Paris based reporter Théo Bourgery-Gonse.