President Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron exchanged a firm, extended handshake outside the Oval Office on Monday before heading into their much-anticipated bilateral meeting, where discussions were expected to focus heavily on Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
As they initially clasped hands in a traditional greeting, both leaders reinforced the moment with friendly pats on each other’s shoulders. Trump then pulled Macron closer, extending the handshake further as they exchanged words. The two leaders briefly acknowledged the gathered press, waving before making their way into the West Wing for their discussions.
This meeting marked the first time Trump and Macron had come face-to-face since their last encounter in December in Paris. That gathering had taken place alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during the highly symbolic reopening of the historic Notre Dame Cathedral.
During that visit to Paris, Trump caught Macron off guard with an unexpectedly forceful handshake, gripping the French leader’s hand so firmly that he nearly pulled him along in the process.
{Matzav.com}