Trump pulls Macron in with handshake ‘trick’ as leaders meet–and also talk to Ukraine’s Zelenskyy

President-elect Donald Trump commanded the spotlight during a high-stakes meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Saturday, showcasing his signature handshake dominance as the two leaders met ahead of the grand reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral.

Trump and Macron posed for photos outside the Élysée Palace, flanked by ceremonial guards. During the handshake, Trump’s firm grip forced Macron to lean in, drawing comparisons to their famously tense exchanges during Trump’s first term.

“Trump Made Macron His B—h,” Social Media Reacts

The assertive handshake instantly became a talking point, with one observer on X declaring, “President Trump just made Macron his b—h with one handshake.” Despite their previously strained relationship, Macron appeared keen to project unity, engaging in back-patting and multiple photo ops with Trump.

Zelensky Joins the Leaders for Trilateral Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later joined the pair for a trilateral meeting inside the Élysée Palace. Photos showed Zelensky visibly uncomfortable as he sat between a stoic Trump and a seemingly hardened Macron, who placed a reassuring hand on Zelensky’s arm.

The meeting marked the first face-to-face encounter between Trump and Zelensky since Trump’s election victory in November. Trump has vowed to broker a swift end to the nearly three-year conflict between Ukraine and Russia, promising on the campaign trail that he could negotiate peace within a single day.

Macron Rolls Out the Red Carpet

In an unusual gesture, Macron extended a presidential-level welcome to Trump, rolling out a red carpet typically reserved for sitting U.S. presidents. The grand reception underscored the significance of their discussions, which Macron hopes will reinforce U.S. support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia.

Trump Praises Macron and Notre Dame Restoration

Trump arrived in Paris praising Macron’s efforts to restore Notre Dame Cathedral after its devastating 2019 fire. “President Macron has done a wonderful job ensuring that Notre Dame has been restored to its full level of glory, and even more so. It will be a very special day for all!” Trump said.

Balancing Global Alliances

European leaders, including Macron, are working to secure assurances from Trump that his administration will not waver in its support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian delegation recently met with Trump advisors in Washington to discuss future U.S. policy.

Trump, known for his turbulent relationships with European leaders during his first term, frequently clashed with them over climate policies and NATO contributions. As he prepares to reenter the global stage, his approach to international alliances remains under close scrutiny.

The trilateral meeting comes as the world looks to Trump’s leadership in addressing major geopolitical challenges, from the war in Ukraine to strengthening U.S.-European relations.