Key facts
- The relationship between US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron has evolved from a close bond to open disagreements.
- Tensions between Trump and Macron could be evident at the upcoming G7 summit in France.
- Macron has criticized Trump's handling of the Iran war and waning support for Ukraine.
- Macron has used Trump's "America First" policies to advocate for stronger European defense.
- Macron has publicly corrected Trump on financial matters related to Ukraine support and condemned his tariffs.
The relationship between US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron has shifted from an initial closeness to open disagreements, with potential for these tensions to be on display at the upcoming G7 summit in France.
Their relationship began with a notable long handshake at a NATO summit in 2017, followed by reciprocal diplomatic gestures such as Macron inviting Trump to Bastille Day celebrations and Trump hosting Macron for a state dinner. However, by the end of Trump's first term, their bond had weakened, leading to public disagreements on issues including tariffs, the war in Ukraine, and the Iran conflict.