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Trump Returns to the Global Stage: Meets with Macron, Zelenskyy & Prince William at Notre Dame Reopening Ceremony
Edited by: Fern Sidman
President-elect Donald Trump made a high-profile return to the global stage, as was reported by Fox News on Saturday. He attended the reopening ceremony of Paris’ iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. The event, held five years after the devastating fire that partially destroyed the historic structure, served as a backdrop for Trump’s first international engagement since his victory in securing a second, non-consecutive term as President of the United States.
According to the Fox News report, Trump arrived in France on Saturday, symbolizing a renewed focus on international diplomacy. The visit focused on his intent to reestablish strong ties with global leaders and reaffirm America’s position on the world stage. At the Élysée Presidential Palace, Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron, a leader with whom he shares a complex yet impactful history of collaboration. In his remarks, Macron warmly welcomed Trump, recalling their previous engagements during Trump’s first term. “It’s a great honor for French people to welcome you five years later,” Macron stated, as reported by Fox News.
Fox News reported that Trump’s diplomatic acumen was in full display during his discussions with Macron, which later included a joint meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This trilateral engagement showcased Trump’s focus on fostering dialogue amidst a tumultuous geopolitical climate. Addressing the current global challenges, Trump candidly remarked, “The world is going a little crazy right now.” His comment resonated with the gravity of international concerns, further positioning him as a leader eager to tackle pressing global issues head-on.
During his exchanges ,the Fox News report indicated that Trump’s emphasis was on the enduring partnership between the U.S. and France. Reflecting on their shared history, Trump praised the French people and their resilience. “We have a great relationship. As everyone knows, we accomplished a lot together,” Trump said of Macron, adding, “And the people of France are spectacular.” The warmth of the interaction signaled a potential strengthening of ties between the two nations under Trump’s renewed leadership.
The Notre Dame reopening ceremony symbolized more than the restoration of a cherished cultural landmark—it served as a metaphor for renewal and unity on a global scale, as per the Fox News report. Trump’s attendance and his diplomatic engagements emphasized his administration’s focus on rebuilding alliances and addressing shared challenges. The event highlighted the significance of cultural diplomacy, with Trump taking a prominent role in the international spotlight as he prepares to navigate a complex global landscape during his upcoming term.
The BBC on Saturday reported that Prince William of the UK also met with Trump in Paris. The event not only symbolized cultural resilience but also provided a platform for renewed dialogue between global leaders, including discussions about the vital “special relationship” between the United Kingdom and the United States.
Prince William, who last met Trump during the latter’s 2019 state visit to the UK, greeted the president-elect at the British ambassador’s residence in Paris. The BBC reported that their interaction was marked by warmth and mutual respect. Trump described William as a “good man” doing a “fantastic job,” while the prince expressed gratitude for Trump’s fond memories of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The meeting, described by Kensington Palace as “warm and friendly,” lasted approximately 40 minutes and covered a range of global issues with a focus on the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The BBC report indicated that the ceremony at Notre-Dame drew more than 1,500 guests, with French President Emmanuel Macron delivering a stirring speech about the cathedral’s restoration. “We must treasure this lesson of fragility, humility, and will,” Macron said, emphasizing the significance of the occasion. The event also featured a message from the Pope and a performance by a choir, while the Archbishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich, led the reopening service. Despite stormy weather forcing changes to parts of the event, the gathering retained its grandeur, with Trump and Macron seated prominently.
Prince William, delayed by inclement weather during his journey from the UK, arrived in time to meet both Trump and First Lady Jill Biden. As the BBC report detailed, their initial exchange at the ceremony included a pat on the shoulder and a brief but warm handshake. William humorously inquired if Trump had warmed up after the chilly outdoor service, to which Trump replied that it had been a “beautiful ceremony.”
The BBC report highlighted the broader historical context of Prince William’s visit. His last official trip to Paris was in 2017 alongside the Princess of Wales, shortly after the Brexit referendum. Earlier this year, he joined other global leaders in Normandy for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. These engagements illustrate the prince’s evolving role on the international stage and his commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties.
Notre-Dame Cathedral, closed since the devastating 2019 fire that destroyed its wooden interiors and toppled its iconic spire, has undergone extensive restoration to reclaim its status as a global symbol of faith and history. The BBC reported that the reopening ceremony served as a powerful reminder of resilience and unity, themes echoed in the interactions between world leaders.
Ultimately, as the BBC observed, the event at Notre-Dame symbolized more than the reopening of a historic cathedral. It represented a moment of reflection, resilience, and renewed partnership, with Prince William and President-elect Trump standing as key figures in shaping the future of transatlantic relations.
