Trump to Mark Notre Dame Renaissance in First Post-Election Overseas Trip
Former President Donald Trump is set to travel abroad for the first time since his reelection, joining world leaders in Paris for the grand reopening of the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. After a devastating fire in 2019, the historic landmark has undergone an extensive five-year restoration, culminating in a grand celebration this weekend.
Trump announced his participation in the event on his Truth Social platform, highlighting the cathedral’s "Magnificent and Historic" revival.
“It is an honor to announce that I will be traveling to Paris, France, on Saturday to attend the re-opening of the Magnificent and Historic Notre Dame Cathedral, which has been fully restored after a devastating fire five years ago,” he wrote. “President Emmanuel Macron has done a wonderful job ensuring that Notre Dame has been restored to its full level of glory, and even more so. It will be a very special day for all!”
The visit marks a symbolic gesture of re-engagement with the international community after a tumultuous presidency and a tightly contested election. Trump’s relationship with French President Macron, once characterized by personal warmth and flattery, became increasingly strained during his first term.
Macron’s criticisms of Trump’s weakening of NATO commitments and threats to American defense pacts fueled tensions, leading to sharp exchanges and public accusations.
However, Macron was among the first world leaders to congratulate Trump on his re-election victory, swiftly extending a virtual olive branch.
"Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump,” Macron posted on X. “Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.”
The event signifies the importance of Notre Dame as a global symbol and its enduring power to unite international communities. The multi-day celebration, attracting world leaders and dignitaries, will culminate in a grand rededication ceremony on Saturday. The Archbishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich, will lead the service, symbolically reawakening Notre Dame’s majestic grand organ, painstakingly restored from the toxic dust caused by the disastrous fire.
The reopening will be underscored by a special musical performance featuring renowned artists like Pretty Yende, Julie Fuchs, Lang Lang, Yo-Yo Ma, Angelique Kidjo, and Hiba Tawaji.
On Sunday, a celebratory Mass will be held, followed by a communal meal for those in need, demonstrating the cathedral’s enduring role as a beacon of hope and unity for the community.
The Ile de la Cité, where Notre Dame stands, will be temporarily closed to tourists, with a dedicated viewing area accommodating up to 40,000 spectators along the Seine’s southern bank.
As the world watches the renaissance of Notre Dame, Trump’s presence adds another layer of intrigue to this momentous occasion. His participation signifies the importance of the moment and highlights the cathedral’s enduring ability to transcend political divides and unite people across nations and cultures.
