France's budget stance complicates EU negotiations ahead of elections

France's unpredictable position is complicating negotiations over the new EU budget, as leaders seek a deal before Marine Le Pen could potentially win the presidency. President Emmanuel Macron's indecision is blocking progress, with France refusing spending cuts while lacking fiscal room for higher contributions. France is a net contributor to the EU budget but rejects reductions in agricultural, competitiveness, and regional funds. Macron supports new EU taxes to close gaps, but faces opposition from frugal nations like the Netherlands. Diplomats note France's stance differs significantly from Germany's. Le Pen proposes cutting EU contributions, abolishing climate policy, and reducing the Commission to an administrative secretariat. Many member states want a quick agreement before upcoming elections in France, Spain, Poland, and Italy, fearing instability. Le Pen calls this rush a democratic scandal.