Donald Trump/ Notre Dame Cathedral/ Macron/ France/ Ukraine war/ U.S.-France relations/ Paris security/ PARIS/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Paris on Saturday to attend the grand reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral following its 2019 fire. Trump will meet French President Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Prince William during his visit, which aims to strengthen diplomatic ties. Security has been heightened for the event, with international leaders attending and discussions on Ukraine’s war also in focus.
Trump in Paris for Notre Dame Reopening: Quick Looks
- Notre Dame Celebration: Trump joins world leaders for the cathedral’s reopening ceremony.
- Diplomatic Talks: Scheduled meetings include Macron, Prince William, and potential Ukraine discussions.
- Heightened Security: French police and Secret Service provide extensive protections for Trump.
- Macron Relationship: French President Macron aims to reset ties after past tensions with Trump.
- Ukraine Concerns: Macron meets separately with Zelenskyy, as Trump promises a swift end to the conflict.
Trump Attends Notre Dame Reopening, Meets Macron in Paris
Deep Look
Trump Attends Historic Notre Dame Event
President-elect Donald Trump’s first international trip since his election victory brought him to Paris on Saturday to celebrate the long-awaited reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. The iconic French landmark, devastated by fire in 2019, has been meticulously restored to its former glory, with leaders and dignitaries gathering to mark the occasion.
Trump praised French President Emmanuel Macron for overseeing the restoration, describing the work as “a wonderful job ensuring Notre Dame has been restored to its full level of glory.”
Diplomatic Meetings on the Agenda
The visit comes at a delicate time for European leaders who are eager to court Trump’s favor on key issues, including ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine in its war against Russia. Macron will also meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the day.
While there is no confirmation of a Trump-Zelenskyy meeting, the Ukrainian president’s aides have engaged with members of Trump’s team to establish dialogue ahead of the administration’s January transition.
Security Heightened Across Paris
Trump’s arrival has prompted tight security measures in the French capital. Over 20 French security agents have joined the Secret Service in safeguarding Trump, with anti-drone vans deployed as part of his convoy. Additional precautions have been taken at the U.S. Embassy and around key Parisian sites hosting the day’s events.
A Mixed History with Macron
Relations between Trump and Macron have seen highs and lows. Macron was the guest of honor at Trump’s first state dinner, and Trump made several visits to France during his first term. However, the relationship soured as Trump questioned NATO’s relevance and raised doubts about U.S. commitment to mutual defense. Macron openly criticized these positions, leading to a strained rapport.
On the campaign trail, Trump often mocked Macron, threatening tariffs on French wine and champagne in retaliation for France’s taxation of U.S. tech companies. Despite past tensions, Macron was quick to congratulate Trump on his recent election victory, signaling a desire to reset ties.
Ukraine and Broader Implications
Trump’s stance on Ukraine has raised questions among European leaders. He has promised a swift resolution to the conflict without providing specifics, prompting concerns in Kyiv and other capitals about the terms of any proposed settlement.
Macron and Zelenskyy are keen to gauge Trump’s intentions as Europe braces for possible shifts in U.S. foreign policy under his leadership. The French president has been actively engaging with all parties to ensure continued Western support for Ukraine.
A Nod to Notre Dame’s History
Trump’s return to Paris for the Notre Dame reopening holds symbolic significance. As president in 2019, Trump reacted to the devastating fire with a now-famous tweet suggesting the use of water tankers to extinguish the flames, a proposal dismissed by French officials as impractical.
Trump’s Nominee for France Ambassador
In a related development, Trump recently announced his intention to nominate Charles Kushner, father of Jared Kushner, as the U.S. ambassador to France. The high-profile role has historically been held by figures like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, underscoring the enduring importance of Franco-American relations.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.