President-elect Donald Trump will make his international return at the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, where he may meet French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit raises concerns among European leaders about U.S. military support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia. Trump’s presence highlights a shift in global dynamics as the Biden administration’s influence wanes. Political observers will scrutinize interactions between Trump and Macron, given their historically fluctuating relationship and shared geopolitical challenges.
Trump’s Return to the Global Stage
On Saturday, President-elect Donald Trump will reemerge on the international scene during the reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Although he is still a private citizen, he is gearing up to tackle a variety of international challenges.
Trump’s arrival at Paris Orly Airport was just before 06:00 GMT, followed by a visit to the U.S. Embassy near the Élysée Palace, as reported by French media outlets. This marks his first overseas trip since securing the presidency in November, and his presence may enable French President Emmanuel Macron to act as a mediator between Europe and the United States, especially given Trump’s reputation for unpredictability.
Potential Meetings and Global Implications
During the ceremony, Trump is expected to meet with Macron, although no specific agenda has been outlined. European leaders are particularly anxious about the possibility of Trump withdrawing U.S. military support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. Macron, a staunch supporter of NATO and Ukraine’s efforts against Moscow, contrasts with Trump’s belief that European nations should increase their defense contributions and pursue a negotiated resolution to the conflict.
In addition to Macron, Trump will also have the opportunity to meet with Prince William, although it’s uncertain if he will engage with any other leaders. The transition team for the president-elect has not commented on this potential interaction. Despite his official inauguration not occurring until January 20, Trump has already initiated discussions with various world leaders and is closely monitoring international crises, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Speculation is swirling regarding a possible meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, following discussions between Trump’s future national security advisor and a senior advisor to Zelensky. Macron’s office has indicated that a bilateral meeting between Trump and Macron is scheduled for 15:00 GMT at the Élysée, which may be followed by a discussion involving Zelensky.
Trump’s visit to Paris is not just a symbolic gesture; it represents his return to the global arena as the Biden administration’s influence wanes. Current President Joe Biden will not attend the reopening ceremony, delegating representation to First Lady Jill Biden.
As Trump stands alongside world leaders at the Notre-Dame ceremony, he will gain significant visibility. His previous visits to France during his presidency from 2017 to 2021, including commemorating the Normandy landings, have set the stage for this moment.
Political observers will be keenly watching the dynamics between Trump and Macron, given their historically fluctuating relationship. Macron had previously extended invitations to Trump for military parades and hosted him for a state dinner at the White House. However, tensions arose following Macron’s comments on NATO, suggesting possible future conflicts over Trump’s policies on tariffs and international relations.
Ultimately, Trump’s visit to Paris could be a strategic move by Macron to foster a direct relationship with the significant figure in the Trump administration, as both leaders navigate a complex landscape of geopolitical challenges.