French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu resigns after less than a month

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In a surprising political twist, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has resigned less than a month after taking office, throwing the government into uncertainty at a critical moment for the country.

Lecornu, who was appointed by President Emmanuel Macron in early September 2025, announced his decision today, citing “irreconcilable political differences” and mounting internal pressures. His resignation marks one of the shortest tenures for a French prime minister in recent history.

A short-lived mandate

Lecornu, 39, had been seen as one of Macron’s closest allies, previously serving as Minister of the Armed Forces. His nomination was initially welcomed as an attempt to bring stability and continuity after political turbulence in the National Assembly.

However, sources inside the Élysée Palace Le Monde and BBC News report that Lecornu quickly faced resistance from opposition parties and even from members within Macron’s centrist alliance. Growing disputes over pension reform, security policy, and the government’s response to energy prices are said to have triggered his departure.

Political shockwaves in Paris

The resignation has immediate consequences: President Macron must now appoint a new prime minister capable of uniting a deeply divided parliament. Analysts say the resignation may weaken Macron’s position as he struggles to maintain control in his second presidential term.

“Changing a prime minister after just a few weeks highlights instability at the heart of the government,” political scientist Jean-Pierre Delaunay told Le Figaro. “It risks eroding public confidence in Macron’s leadership.”

What’s next?

Attention now turns to potential successors. Among the names circulating are Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin and former Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne, though no official statement has been made by the presidency.

Internationally, the resignation has sparked concern among France’s allies, particularly as the country plays a central role in European Union decision-making and NATO defense strategy.

Impact on citizens

For ordinary French citizens, the resignation adds another layer of uncertainty at a time when inflation, energy prices, and unemployment remain pressing issues. Many fear that ongoing political instability will delay crucial reforms.