In brief
President-elect Donald J. Trump made headlines on Saturday with a prominent appearance in Paris for the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral, marking his first venture abroad since winning the presidential election.
Trump’s arrival coincided with a meeting at Élysée Palace with French President Emmanuel Macron, signaling a bold stride back into the international arena prior to his inauguration. The two leaders exchanged friendly gestures, including a handshake and a brief embrace. As the outgoing Biden administration's influence wanes, Trump is positioning himself as a fresh face representing the U.S. on the global front. Notably, while President Biden will be absent from the ceremony, First Lady Jill Biden is expected to attend. "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," Trump expressed on social media ahead of the event. "It will be a very special day for all!" The ceremony at Notre-Dame serves not just as a celebration of restoration following its devastating 2019 fire but also as a reflection of Macron’s efforts to project his government’s success during a turbulent time. This recent turmoil saw France’s prime minister, Michel Barnier, ousted after a no-confidence vote, leaving the government struggling to maintain its coalition. Leaders worldwide are preparing for another term under Trump, with indications that many international figures are eager to forge relations. Despite a previously strained relationship largely due to Macron's push for a European defense initiative that could rival U.S. interests, both leaders seem to be keen on renewing diplomatic ties ahead of Trump's presidency. Simon J. Levien is a political reporter focusing on the 2024 elections and part of the Times Fellowship program for emerging journalists.
