During a private lunch on Wednesday, Donald Trump made disparaging remarks about French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, which were briefly published by the White House before being removed.
Trump’s Remarks on Macron
Donald Trump made several comments about French President Emmanuel Macron during a private lunch on April 1st. The recording of the event was initially published by the White House but was subsequently removed.
Trump reportedly said, “I’m calling France, to Macron, whose wife he treats terribly. He’s still recovering from a jaw shot,” referencing an incident during a 2025 visit by the French presidential couple to Vietnam.
Video footage from that visit showed Brigitte Macron unexpectedly pushing Emmanuel Macron’s face with her hands while on a plane, after which the president smiled and waved to the camera.
Context of Trump’s Comments
Trump initially commented on Emmanuel Macron’s relationship while discussing the situation in Iran. He stated he was seeking assistance from France regarding the Persian Gulf, despite the U.S. achieving success in neutralizing threats.
Trump then mimicked a response from Macron, who reportedly said he could only offer assistance after the war concluded. Trump claimed he responded, “I won’t be needing Emmanuel when the war is over.”
Macron’s Response to Trump
According to the French newspaper *Le Figaro*, Macron responded to Trump’s comments on April 2nd while in Seoul with his wife. He stated the remarks were “neither elegant nor worthy of the standards” and did not warrant a response.
Past Denials of Conflict
*Le Monde* reports that Macron previously denied that the incident in Vietnam stemmed from an argument or domestic violence. He explained they were “bickering, joking a little, and I was surprised.”
Macron also noted that he has been the subject of speculation based on short video clips before, including claims about cocaine use and disputes with the Turkish president. He asserted that none of these reports are true.