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France faces widespread protests and potential nationwide shutdowns on Wednesday, dubbed "Block Everything," prompted by budget cuts. 80,000 security forces will be deployed to counter anticipated blockades at key infrastructure points. The movement, lacking clear leadership, is fueled by opposition to recent budget cuts and draws support from a significant portion of the population. Newly appointed Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu faces the immediate challenge of managing the unrest and restarting stalled budget talks in a politically fractured parliament. Further strikes are planned for next week.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.