On Saturday, French President Emmanuel Macron offered a grand reception filled with presidential grandeur to President-elect Donald Trump. The visit also included an unplanned meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine’s President, making it a day of ceremonial splendor intermingled with addressing pressing global issues.
This is Trump’s maiden international voyage since his recent re-election to the White House. He journeyed to France to partake in the celebrations marking the renovation and reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral. The world-famous landmark had been ravaged by a catastrophic fire five years ago.
Trump’s visit also aligns with the ongoing efforts of Macron and other European leaders to win the president-elect’s favor. They aim to convince him to uphold his support for Ukraine amidst the country’s ongoing struggle against Russia’s three-year invasion.
Trump arrived at the Paris’ Orly Airport on Saturday morning, with over 20 French government security agents and the Secret Service ensuring his safety. This coincides with heightened security measures at the U.S. Embassy and other significant locations in Paris for the grand re-opening of Notre Dame.
Macron welcomed Trump at the Elysee Palace, the official residence of the French president, with an array of handshakes and back-pats, projecting a strong bond. Trump reciprocated by expressing his honor and acknowledging their great relationship.
The ceremonious red carpet arrival is a tradition that the French reserve for incumbent American presidents. This signals the eagerness of Macron and other European leaders to secure Trump’s favor before he officially takes office.
Zelenskyy reached the palace approximately 45 minutes after Trump and met him inside the cathedral. Macron had planned to meet Zelenskyy, and Macron’s office stated that the impromptu three-way meeting was Macron’s idea and was arranged just before Trump’s arrival. Trump has vowed to promptly end the war in Ukraine but hasn’t elaborated on his plans, causing apprehension in Kyiv about potential negotiation terms.
Trump had a prime spot at the service, seated right between Macron and Zelenskyy, a more prominent position than the first lady Jill Biden, who was seated on the other side of Brigitte Macron.
Trump’s visit to France also included a meeting with Britain’s Prince William, which took place at the British ambassador’s residence in Paris. Trump praised the Prince of Wales for doing “a fantastic job” before they sat down for a private conversation in a room reserved for high-profile figures.
The relationship between Trump and Macron, which started warmly, had its ups and downs during Trump’s first term. Despite Macron being the guest of honor at Trump’s first state dinner, their relationship deteriorated after Macron criticized Trump’s skepticism about NATO and his wavering commitment to the defense pact. Nevertheless, Macron was among the first global leaders to congratulate Trump after his election victory last month.
Trump’s visit to France is a testament to his commitment to strengthening international relations and addressing global issues. His participation in the grand reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral marked a significant event in history and served as a symbol of resilience and restoration.
