EDITORIAL. France's hopes of forming a blocking minority have quickly faded, with the free trade agreement between the EU and four South American countries is set to be finalized on Friday. The episode risks leaving French public opinion with a sense of political powerlessness.

In a push to get the deal over the line, EU agriculture ministers will discuss the agreement on Wednesday. France and Italy have called for tougher safeguard clauses.

EDITORIAL. France's hopes of forming a blocking minority have quickly faded, with the free trade agreement between the EU and four South American countries is set to be finalized…