Le Pen's EU funding threat puts Sweden in a bind

Marine Le Pen has launched her French presidential campaign by threatening to withhold up to half of France's EU budget contribution, a move that could trigger a major confrontation over the bloc's finances. The threat comes as France faces potential state bankruptcy with a national debt at 120 percent of GDP. Le Pen argues France needs the funds domestically, particularly for its struggling school system, which has seen widespread protests over poor conditions. She also stated France cannot afford continued economic support for Ukraine. Her proposal coincides with negotiations on a new EU budget for 2028-2035 worth 1,763 billion euros, a 40 percent increase from the previous period. The plan puts Sweden in a difficult position, as Stockholm also wants lower EU fees but prioritizes funding for research, defense, and Ukraine over agricultural subsidies, which Le Pen strongly supports. Le Pen currently polls at 35 percent ahead of the first presidential election round.