In the midst of political uncertainty, the French government is facing accusations of secretly preparing an austerity budget for 2025. Critics, including left-wing leaders, claim that the government is bypassing democratic processes by drafting a budget that could restrict future administrations.

Marine Tondelier, leader of the Ecologists, has raised alarms about proposed cuts of 2 billion euros to hospitals, arguing that such decisions undermine public services.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire insists that the government is merely laying the groundwork for the upcoming budget, emphasizing the need for a structured financial plan.

The final budget decisions will ultimately rest with the next government, as current Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has yet to confirm the dispatch of budgetary guidelines to ministries by the August 15 deadline.