Michel Barnier vowed to slash spending and temporarily raise some taxes, but his plan must contend with three bitterly opposed political blocs and an aversion in France to working across party lines.

New French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faced a rough ride at parliament as he laid out his proposed policies in an inaugural speech that highlighted how difficult governing will be for his minority government.

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen denied violating any rules as she and her National Rally party and two dozen others went on trial on Monday, accused of embezzling European Parliament funds, in a case that has the potential to derail her political ambitions.

Marine Le Pen and others are accused of using European funds for unrelated party expenses. The trial, expected to last two months, comes as her National Rally has gained more political sway.

The threat of conviction comes at a crucial juncture for the far-right leader, whose party has gained unprecedented sway over France’s new government.