French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu Resigns Amid Cabinet Controversy

In a stunning development, France's Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu stepped down from his role on Monday, just days after forming a new government. This resignation follows widespread political criticism over his cabinet appointments, which included appointing former finance minister Bruno Le Maire to lead the defense ministry.

Despite attempts to introduce fresh ideas, many key cabinet positions remained unchanged from the previous administration, fueling discontent. Conservative Bruno Retailleau continues as the interior minister, while Jean-Noel Barrot and Gerald Darmanin hold their posts as foreign and justice ministers, respectively.

Lecornu's brief tenure was marked by his intention to foster cross-party consensus in the sharply divided National Assembly. He avoided using a special constitutional power to pass the budget without a parliamentary vote, opting instead to seek collaborative solutions. However, his sudden resignation adds further turbulence to France's political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)