The ongoing dynamic between President Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron has captured significant media attention, particularly in light of recent events at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. During a historic visit, President Trump celebrated a major peace deal between Israel and Hamas, which led to the release of 20 hostages by Hamas. This meeting underscored a diplomatic breakthrough and spotlighted the theatrical nature of handshakes between these two leaders.
Upon his arrival in the Middle East, Trump was met with a lineup of world leaders eager to shake his hand. The handshake that took place between Trump and Macron stood out as a moment of intense drama. Described as a “power play,” it appeared to be a display of dominance from Trump, leaving Macron visibly at a loss. Social media quickly seized on the moment, with users commenting on Macron’s reaction and suggesting it reflected poorly on his leadership. One account noted, “Emmanuel Macron is an EMBARRASSMENT to the French People,” using caps to emphasize the sentiment shared by some observers.
The history of their handshakes reflects a competitive relationship. It began in May 2017 at a NATO summit. Their first meeting resulted in a strong, lingering handshake that set the tone for their interactions. Since then, the handshake has evolved into a spectacle. Subsequent encounters, like the one at Notre Dame Cathedral, featured a handshake lasting 17 seconds, which many noted fell short of their earlier 29-second record. These encounters have fueled public curiosity about who holds the upper hand—both literally and figuratively.
Earlier in the year, President Trump made headlines when he presented Macron with what was dubbed a “death grip” handshake, raising eyebrows and speculation about the underlying tension between the two leaders. The media’s framing of these moments typically leans toward the sensational, emphasizing strength and dominance rather than mere greetings. In fact, during a joint press conference following a meeting in the Oval Office, Trump reportedly shook Macron’s hand with such force that observers claimed he nearly dislocated Macron’s shoulder—a physical assertion that left a mark on their diplomatic encounters.
Such handshakes have become a recurring motif in the narrative of Trump and Macron’s interactions, symbolizing broader themes of power, influence, and national pride. The latest display in Egypt serves as a reminder that these public greetings are more than formalities; they are moments charged with meaning that can reflect the state of international relations. Whether seen as a show of strength or an awkward display, the handshakes between Trump and Macron continue to provide insights into their complex relationship as world leaders.
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