France re-authorizes use of neonicotinoid pesticides despite EU-wide restrictions

France has re-authorized the use of specific neonicotinoid pesticides, confirmed by official action, despite prior national bans and EU-wide restrictions. This decision led to the confirmed resignation of the French Ecological Transition Minister, Monique Barbut, indicating significant internal government friction over environmental policy. The move signals a potential shift in French regulatory priorities favoring agricultural interests over ecological conservation.