Trump meets with Macron, Zelensky, ahead of Notre Dame reopening ceremony

President-elect Donald Trump traveled to Paris on Saturday to attend the reopening of the historic Notre Dame Cathedral, marking his first foreign trip since winning a second term. The visit included meetings with world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump and Macron met at the Elysee Palace prior to the ceremony where the two leaders posed for photos. There, Trump gave Macron one of his signature firm handshakes, drawing comparisons to his interactions with foreign leaders during his first term.

"It's a great honor for French people to welcome you five years later," Macron said. "And you were, at that time, president for the first time. And I remember the solidarity and your immediate action. So, welcome back again. We are very happy to have you here."

Before the meeting, Trump told reporters the discussions would address global challenges, saying, "The world is going a little crazy right now,” according to Fox News.

"We have a great relationship. As everyone knows, we accomplished a lot together," Trump said about Macron. "And the people of France are spectacular."

The two were later joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump’s recent meeting with Zelensky comes amid uncertainty regarding the US’ future rule in the Russia-Ukraine war. The president-elect has previously stated that he would end the conflict within 24 hours if elected to serve a second term.

Following the ceremony, Trump is expected to meet with Prince William, who is also attending the event, according to British media.

Leading up to Trump’s appearance at the Notre Dame reopening, reports indicated that Macron personally invited Trump to attend the event. Macron reportedly made an extensive phone call to Trump, urging his attendance as part of broader efforts to strengthen relations with the incoming US administration. European leaders have sought to repair ties with Trump amid concerns over his past criticism of NATO spending and the imposition of tariffs on European goods. 

The Notre Dame reopening comes after the Cathedral suffered severe damage during a fire in 2019.