Macron dismisses Trump’s ‘inelegant’ dig about his marriage

Macron Dismisses Trump’s ‘Inelegant’ Criticism of His Marriage

During a NATO critique, Trump made a personal remark about Macron, stating that the French president’s wife “treats him extremely badly.” Macron responded to the jab, calling it “neither elegant nor up to standard” and suggesting it lacked the weight to warrant a reply. The exchange took place amid broader discussions about military alliances and regional tensions.

“We didn’t need them, but I asked anyway,” Trump said, mimicking a French accent. “Macron — whose wife treats him extremely badly. Still recovering from the right to the jaw,” he added, referencing a viral video from last year showing Brigitte Macron seemingly pushing the president’s face during a visit to Vietnam.

The video, briefly shared by the White House on YouTube before being removed, became a focal point of Trump’s remarks. In the clip, he mocked Macron while criticizing NATO allies for their perceived lack of involvement in US operations against Iran. “And I said, ‘Emmanuel, we’d love to have some help in the Gulf even though we’re setting records on knocking out bad people and ballistic missiles. We’d love to have some help. If you could, could you please send ships immediately,'” Trump continued.

Macron clarified that the focus should remain on diplomatic efforts rather than personal barbs. “There is too much talk, and it’s all over the place,” he remarked, pointing to Trump’s broader approach to warfare. “We all need stability, calm, a return to peace — this isn’t a show!” the French leader emphasized, urging calm in the Middle East.

To view the video that sparked the controversy, users are prompted to enable JavaScript and upgrade to a browser supporting HTML5 video. Macron’s dismissal of the remark underscores his preference for addressing global challenges over engaging in political theater.