Belgium's government in crisis: PM De Wever offers his resignation; the king puts it on hold

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever offered his government's resignation to King Philippe on Monday after overnight budget talks among his five coalition parties ended without a deal. The king did not accept it. The palace said he is reserving his decision and will meet the leaders of the majority parties starting Tuesday. De Wever is due back at the palace Friday, Nov. 6, RTBF and ANSA report.

"In a context of great geopolitical uncertainty and considerable economic challenges, the country cannot afford a prolonged political crisis," the palace said.

The coalition has to find about €10 billion in savings. Belgium's deficit was about 5% of GDP last year, above the EU's 3% limit, and its debt is more than 110% of GDP, Euronews reports. VRT says the split is left vs. right: the socialist Vooruit, the Christian Democrats and the centrist Les Engagés want the wealthiest to pay more, while De Wever's N-VA and the liberal MR oppose higher taxes. If the king accepts the resignation, new elections would likely follow.