LFI Files Motion of Censure Against French Government Over Mercosur Deal and International Policy

On January 9, 2026, La France insoumise (LFI) formally filed a motion of censure against Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's government. This political move is a direct protest against what LFI describes as violations of popular sovereignty and international law, specifically criticizing the government's stance on the Mercosur trade agreement and its handling of the situation in Venezuela.

LFI leaders, including Mathilde Panot, argue that France's position under President Emmanuel Macron has led to the country being "humiliated at Brussels and Washington." Despite Macron's official rejection of the Mercosur treaty, LFI contends the agreement continues to pose ecological, industrial, and social risks, alongside fostering unfair competition that threatens French interests. The party also condemned Macron's response to the U.S. military actions against Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, deeming it insufficient in denouncing what they see as illegal aggression.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu criticized the motion as a cynical political tactic that undermines France’s international voice and complicates budget negotiations. He noted that the Rassemblement National (RN) party plans to submit a similar motion concerning the Mercosur treaty, reflecting broader parliamentary dissent.

These developments take place amid long-standing tensions over the Mercosur free trade agreement, which has been under negotiation for 25 years and could create a market of 750 million people across South America and the EU. Though French President Macron has consistently opposed the deal, the European Commission and several other states are pushing for its ratification. The controversy highlights deep divisions within France over sovereignty, trade policy, and international relations.