Paris played host to a flurry of diplomatic activity on saturday, culminating in a historic trilateral meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and United States President-elect Donald Trump.
The day began with President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron welcoming King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of belgium to Notre Dame Cathedral. The monarchs were among the dignitaries attending the highly anticipated reopening of the iconic Parisian landmark.
Later in the afternoon, President Zelensky arrived at the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French president, for his first meeting with President-elect Trump since the latterS election victory. “Volodymyr Zelensky was welcomed by the head of protocol at the Élysée. This is the first meeting between the Ukrainian leader and the Republican billionaire as his election to the White House,” a statement from the Élysée read.
The three leaders then convened for a trilateral meeting in the Élysée’s gilded salon. The meeting, described as “serious” by observers, marked a significant moment in international diplomacy, bringing together key players from Europe, the United States, and Ukraine.
The discussions likely centered on a range of pressing global issues, including the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, transatlantic relations, and the future of European security.
The meeting concluded with President Trump and President Zelensky departing the Élysée, leaving President Macron to continue his diplomatic engagements.
Paris played host to a historic trilateral meeting on Saturday, bringing together French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and former U.S. President Donald Trump. The meeting, orchestrated by Macron, marked the first encounter between Zelensky and Trump since Trump’s election victory.
the meeting at the Elysée Palace began with a bilateral discussion between Macron and Trump. “It is a great honor for the French people to receive you.Welcome back,” Macron said to Trump. Trump, in turn, praised their “excellent relations,” stating, “We’ve had great success working together.” He added, “The world seems to be going a little crazy right now,” a comment that resonated with the current global climate.
Zelensky joined the meeting later in the afternoon. The discussions likely centered around the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Zelensky seeking continued support from international partners. The meeting provided a platform for dialog and potential collaboration between the three leaders on critical global issues.
Trump’s visit to Paris marked his first international trip as his election victory. The meeting with Macron and Zelensky underscored the importance of transatlantic relations and the need for continued cooperation on pressing global challenges.
Paris, France – Former U.S.President Donald Trump made his first international trip since leaving office on Saturday, arriving in Paris for a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. The meeting, initially scheduled for 3:00 p.m.GMT,was delayed by nearly 45 minutes due to Trump’s late arrival.
Trump was greeted with pomp and ceremony at the Élysée Palace by the Republican Guard. Following their bilateral meeting,Macron was set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later in the day.
“The world seems to be going a little crazy right now,” Trump remarked during his visit.
The visit comes amidst a backdrop of global uncertainty, with the war in Ukraine and ongoing geopolitical tensions dominating headlines.Trump’s presence in Paris adds another layer of complexity to the international landscape.
The meeting between Trump and Macron is expected to cover a range of issues, including the war in Ukraine, transatlantic relations, and global security.
Trump’s trip to Paris also coincides with the reopening of notre-Dame Cathedral, a symbolic event for France and the world.
## “Trilateral Talks in Paris: A Turning Point in Global Diplomacy?”
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Dr. Sophia Durand, International Relations Expert**
**Paris, France:**
The historic trilateral meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and former U.S. President Donald Trump in Paris has sent shockwaves through international circles. To understand the significance of this unprecedented gathering, World Today News sat down with Dr. Sophia Durand, a renowned expert in international relations and diplomacy.
**World Today News:** dr. Durand, thank you for joining us. This meeting was certainly unexpected. What do you make of this unique trilateral constellation?
**Dr. Durand:** It’s indeed a remarkable event, signaling a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape. While the exact agenda remains undisclosed, bringing together Macron, Zelensky and Trump – three leaders with vastly different perspectives and political styles – suggests a desire to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
**World Today News:** The meeting coincided with the highly anticipated reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. Was there symbolism in this timing?
**Dr.Durand:** Absolutely. Notre Dame, a potent symbol of European history and resilience, provides a powerful backdrop. Macron, by hosting this meeting amidst the cathedral’s reopening, is perhaps seeking to underscore the importance of unity and rebuilding, not just in Europe, but on a global scale.
**World Today News:** The ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine was likely a major topic of discussion. What role could Trump possibly play in this context, given his complex relationship with both Russia and Ukraine?
**Dr. Durand:** Trump’s involvement is both intriguing and potentially unpredictable. His past actions have raised concerns about his commitment to NATO and his dealings with Putin. However, his unique relationship with both Zelensky and Putin could provide an chance, however unconventional, for mediating a solution. It remains to be seen whether this will lead to a genuine breakthrough or simply exacerbate existing tensions.
**World Today News:** what are the broader implications of this meeting for transatlantic relations, which have been strained in recent years?
**Dr. Durand:** This meeting could signal a tentative step towards mending fences. Macron, by inviting both Zelensky and Trump, is clearly seeking to position France as a key player in international diplomacy and reassert European leadership on the global stage.
**World Today news:** what message do you think this meeting sends to the rest of the world?
**dr. Durand:** The world is watching. This meeting, although shrouded in secrecy, demonstrates a willingness to engage in dialog and search for solutions to urgent global challenges. Whether this newfound dialogue translates into concrete action remains to be seen. Ultimately, the success of this trilateral initiative will hinge on the willingness of all parties involved to set aside political differences and work towards common ground.
**World Today News:** Dr. Durand,thank you for your invaluable insight.