Macron Faces French Farmers' Fury Over Trade Deal and Cow Disease

French President Emmanuel Macron met with farmers' unions on Tuesday to address growing anger over a contentious free trade deal and the government's response to a cow disease outbreak. The meeting marked the first time Macron had spoken with union leaders since protests began against the mass culling of cows to contain the spread of lumpy skin disease. The protests, which have included roadblocks and demonstrations, are fueled by a range of issues, including the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which has been put on hold until January. Farmers are concerned that the deal will lead to cheaper imports from Brazil, threatening their livelihoods. Macron's meeting with the unions aimed to 'put out the fire' in the countryside, according to Stephane Galais of the Confederation Paysanne union. However, the unions have demanded 'strong structural measures' to address their concerns. The EU-Mercosur pact would create the world's largest free-trade area, allowing EU members to export more goods to Latin America. However, farmers fear the deal will see them undercut by cheaper imports from Brazil and its neighbors. The cow disease outbreak has also divided the unions, with some supporting the government's policy of slaughtering all animals in affected herds. The agriculture ministry confirmed a new case of the disease in southwestern France on Tuesday, bringing the total number of outbreaks to 115 since June. Protesting farmers have used blockades and other tactics to pressure the authorities into reviewing their policy. While some protests have eased ahead of the holiday season, others remain in place, including motorway blockades on the A63 and A64. The unions have made it clear that they oppose the Mercosur deal and are demanding action from the government to address their concerns. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Macron's meeting with the unions will lead to a resolution.