French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal is facing mounting pressure from agricultural unions staging protests in Paris. The unions are demanding action from the government on issues related to pay, taxes, and regulations.
Leaders of major farming unions announced plans for an "indefinite siege" on the French capital, with farmers from regions surrounding Paris preparing to block major roads leading into the city. Additionally, farmers from the Lot-et-Garonne region intend to travel to Paris to blockade the Rungis wholesale food market.
The protests stem from farmers' grievances over low purchase prices for produce, complex environmental regulations, and the elimination of tax breaks on diesel for farm equipment. The decision to phase out the tax break on diesel has particularly angered farmers.
Attal acknowledged the farmers' message, stating that he had received it "loud and clear." The protests represent a significant challenge for Attal, who is facing his first major crisis as prime minister.
Source: www.rfi.fr