'We had a difficult discussion': Macron's remark to Zelensky before Trump meeting caught on hot mic
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that he had a "difficult" discussion with US President Donald Trump ahead of a key session on Ukraine at the
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that he had a "difficult" discussion with US President Donald Trump ahead of a key session on Ukraine at the G7 summit, offering a rare public glimpse into the diplomatic dynamics unfolding among Western leaders. The remark came during a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that was picked up on a hot mic as the two leaders walked through the grounds of the Hotel Royal, where world leaders had gathered for the summit. Macron Reveals Tense Exchange With Trump Before joining a group discussion focused on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Macron informed Zelensky that his talks with Trump the previous evening had not been easy. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 What did Macron say about his discussion with Trump before the G7 summit? ⌵ Macron described his conversation with Trump as 'difficult,' highlighting the tension between the two leaders regarding various issues, including the war in Ukraine. 2 Why is the conversation between Macron and Zelensky significant? ⌵ The conversation, captured by a hot mic, reveals behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts to engage Trump more effectively in support of Ukraine during the G7 summit. 3 How did Macron facilitate a meeting between Trump and Zelensky? ⌵ During their walk, Macron asked Zelensky about his planned meeting with Trump and offered to arrange it after Zelensky mentioned he had not yet secured a face-to-face discussion.
4 Should European leaders expect strong support from Trump for Ukraine? ⌵ European leaders are advocating for increased American support for Ukraine, suggesting that Trump's approach remains unpredictable amid ongoing tensions with several European countries. 5 What were Zelensky's priorities discussed at the G7 summit? ⌵ Zelensky outlined Kyiv's immediate priorities, including securing more air defense missiles, a winter support package, and pressing for increased pressure on Russia. “Yesterday we had a difficult discussion with President Trump,” Macron told the Ukrainian leader. The comment reflected broader tensions that have emerged between Trump and several European leaders over a range of issues, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict involving Iran, Trump's remarks about Zelensky and Kyiv, and his proposals regarding Greenland. A European official described Trump's approach during the summit in characteristically mixed terms. “Trump is being his usual self,” a European official told NBC News of the president’s mood at the summit. “Nice sometimes and not so nice sometimes.” Hot-Mic Conversation Reveals Diplomatic Efforts As Macron and Zelensky walked together before the summit session, their conversation shed light on behind-the-scenes efforts to secure greater engagement from the US president. Speaking in English, Macron encouraged Zelensky to remain longer at the gathering of world leaders. Zelensky, however, indicated that he was expected in Brussels later in the week. During the exchange, Macron asked whether Zelensky had managed to arrange a face-to-face meeting with Trump.
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