By Katherine Tinsley
10:47am PST, Feb 25, 2025
While in the Oval Office, the two presidents were filmed having an awkward exchange, as the reality star firmly held Macron's hand.
"Quite a handshake or whatever this is here between Trump and Macron," one X user said, while sharing a video of Trump and Macron's interaction.
Trump's signature handclasp is sometimes seen as his attempt to assert dominance among world leaders.
"Every time they shake it's like an arm wrestling contest," one user replied.
While X users analyzed Macron's time with Trump, the two leaders appeared to enjoy each other's company.
"No, in fact, to be frank, we paid. We paid 60 percent of the total effort: it was through, like the U.S., loans, guarantees, grants," Macron said, according to ABC, while discussing the aid France gave Ukraine. "And we provided real money, to be clear."
"If you believe that, it's okay with me," Trump interjected, as the two men discussed the region.
The French politician admitted he has confidence in Trump's ability to de-escalate the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
"I think the arrival of President Trump is a game-changer," Macron said. "And I think he has the deterrence capacity of the U.S. to reengage with Russia."
During Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, he promised to no longer give money to Ukraine despite it being the nation's ally.
"We want peace," Macron stressed. "And I think the initiative of President Trump is a very positive one. But my message was to say be careful because we need something substantial for Ukraine."
While chatting with Macron, Trump confirmed he will talk with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"I will be meeting with President Zelenskyy. In fact, he may come this week or next week to sign the agreement," Trump revealed.
As Trump works to reduce financial contributions to Ukraine, he is proud of America's history with France.
"France is America's oldest ally, our cherished partnership has been a force for freedom, prosperity and peace from the very beginning," Trump said during a press conference.
"We're now working on some very interesting developments, one in particular, as you know, the war between Russia and Ukraine," he noted.
