Fatshimetrie —
The meeting between Emmanuel Macron and Donald Trump in Paris this weekend evokes a feeling of déjà vu. Macron, known for having seduced Trump during his previous term, continues to offer him the honors, even going so far as to invite him to the inauguration of Notre-Dame Cathedral, five years after the devastating fire. This highlighting of Trump at this major event illustrates the strong comeback of the president-elect, six weeks before the start of his second term.
Already active on the international stage, Trump has threatened to start a trade war with Canada and Mexico, while showing his authority in front of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. His participation in the Paris event also underlines the contrast with the difficult departure of Joe Biden, criticized for having pardoned his son, Hunter, going against the equality before the law that he advocated.
As Biden highlights America’s commitment to sub-Saharan Africa in the face of China’s growing influence, Trump is preparing to shine in Paris, demonstrating his appeal to foreign leaders. His trip underscores a concern shared by all world leaders: how to handle a new American president who is more aggressive and unpredictable on the international stage, sometimes preferring to hobnob with autocrats rather than allies.
Macron’s invitation highlights the struggle among European powers to be the main broker in Washington, with Macron seeking to assert France’s dominance since Angela Merkel’s departure, promoting his book in Washington alongside Barack Obama. Indeed, Trump’s return raises concerns about his potential abandonment of Ukraine to accommodate Vladimir Putin, as well as a possible fracture in NATO.
Macron’s meeting with Trump in Paris will therefore be much more than a mere protocol meeting. It will highlight the major issues on the international scene, highlighting the tensions and challenges that world leaders will have to face in the coming months.
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