French President Macron calls Trump after being blocked by US leader's motorcade

French President Emmanuel Macron found himself caught in the chaos of New York City traffic during the United Nations General Assembly. On Monday evening, a New York City police officer prevented Macron and his delegation from crossing the street, as security measures froze the area for the passing motorcade of  U.S. President Donald Trump. The officer, clearly embarrassed, apologized to Macron, explaining that the street was shut for security reasons. Macron, smiling, responded playfully by saying, “If you don’t see it, let me cross. I negotiate with you,” a light-hearted remark that referenced the diplomatic negotiations scheduled for the week.

Rather than expressing frustration, Macron decided to make the most of the unusual situation. Standing on the sidewalk, he pulled out his phone and called Trump directly. In a moment caught on video and widely shared online, Macron could be heard saying, “Guess what - I’m waiting in the street because everything is frozen for you.” The call quickly shifted from humor to diplomacy as Macron suggested they discuss pressing international matters.

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According to reports, Macron used the impromptu phone call to raise the situation in Gaza and proposed holding a short discussion involving Trump and Qatari officials. A source close to the French president confirmed the call, describing it as warm and friendly. The unexpected exchange offered both leaders a chance to touch on global issues despite the light-hearted start.

The scene captured Macron’s ability to blend humor with diplomacy, turning a moment of inconvenience into a symbolic gesture of flexibility. The incident also highlighted the unique challenges faced by world leaders in New York during the annual UN General Assembly, when motorcades, roadblocks, and tight security often disrupt the city’s streets. For Macron, it was a reminder that even presidents must sometimes wait at barricades. For Trump, it was an unusual but informal moment of contact with a fellow leader ahead of broader discussions.

The episode has since gained attention on social media, with many viewers amused at seeing high-level diplomacy unfold from an ordinary city street corner.

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