In a surprising turn of events, France's two major farmers' unions have announced their decision to suspend protests and lift road blockades across the country. The move comes shortly after French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal presented a new set of measures that the unions view as "tangible progress." However, the president of the larger FNSEA union emphasized that the movement is not ending but rather transforming and will continue to remain active.

The main farmers' union, FNSEA (Fédération nationale des syndicats d'exploitants agricoles), led by Arnaud Rousseau, made the announcement amid ongoing protests over issues related to pay, taxes, and regulations. French farmers have been demanding greater support and changes in the agricultural sector.

Prime Minister Attal offered a series of concessions to address these concerns. Among the measures proposed were the allocation of an annual 150 million euros for livestock farmers and a ban on food imports treated with thiacloprid, a neonicotinoid pesticide that is already prohibited in France.

While this development brings temporary respite from the protests, it is important to note that the farmers' unions have affirmed their commitment to remain active. This implies that they will continue to advocate for their demands and seek further improvements in the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, in Brussels, where EU leaders are gathered for a summit on aid to Ukraine, protesters intensified their actions. Police estimated that around 1,000 tractors blocked several major thoroughfares, demanding greater attention and concessions from the European Union for the struggling agriculture sector.

In France, authorities released 79 farmers who were detained after an incursion at the Rungis wholesale food market, Europe's largest, located north of Paris. The incident highlighted the desperation and frustration among farmers, as they sought to draw attention to their problems.

French President Emmanuel Macron was scheduled to meet with European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen to discuss "the future of European farming." This meeting indicates the significance of the agricultural sector in the broader context of Europe and highlights the need for comprehensive and sustainable solutions.

While the suspension of protests and the lifting of blockades may provide some temporary relief, it is clear that the farmers' unions are determined to continue fighting for change. The negotiations between the government, unions, and European leaders will play a crucial role in shaping the future of French agriculture and addressing the underlying concerns of farmers across the country.