Trump’s Firm Handshake with Brigitte Macron at G7
During the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, President Donald Trump greeted France’s first lady, Brigitte Macron, with one of his characteristic long and firm handshakes. This gesture highlights the intricate dynamics between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, marked by their history of intense handshakes resembling a tug-of-war.
Background on Trump-Macron Relationship
The relationship between Trump and Emmanuel Macron has seen fluctuating moments of friendship and tension. Their first encounter in 2017 in Brussels featured a noticeable prolonged handshake that set the tone for their interactions. Over the years, they experienced both warm exchanges, such as the Bastille Day celebrations in Paris, and significant disagreements over issues like tariffs and international conflicts in Ukraine and Iran.
The latest handshake involving Brigitte Macron expands the narrative of these symbolic grips.
Incident Involving Brigitte Macron
Trump previously mocked Brigitte Macron and the relationship between her and President Macron. At a private event in April, he criticized France’s stance on Iran and accused Brigitte of mistreating her husband, referring to a viral video where she seemed to push Emmanuel’s face away. Emmanuel Macron responded, calling Trump’s remarks inelegant.
Overview of the G7 Summit
The G7, comprising seven leading industrial nations, serves to coordinate policy on global economic stability and international security issues. The member countries include France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Leaders of these nations gathered at the Evian summit to discuss pressing global issues.
G7 Leaders at the 2026 Summit
- Emmanuel Macron, President of France (Host)
- Donald Trump, President of the United States
- Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
- Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
- Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany
- Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy
- Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan
The 2026 summit anticipated tensions involving Trump and his allies, especially concerning Iran and transatlantic cooperation.
The G7’s purpose extends beyond being a treaty organization, focusing on consensus-building. During this summit, the interplay between Trump and Macron, along with Trump’s broader dissatisfaction with some U.S. allies, likely influenced the discussions.