Macron Fires Back at Trump Over Wife Comments

French president responds to former US leader's remarks about his spouse.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:28pm

French President Emmanuel Macron has sharply criticized former US President Donald Trump for mocking Macron over an apparent altercation he had with his wife Brigitte. Macron called Trump's comments "unacceptable" and said the former president was "still recovering from the right to the jaw" - an apparent reference to Trump's past controversies.

Why it matters

The war of words between the two leaders highlights the ongoing political tensions between France and the US, even after Trump left office. Macron's forceful response also demonstrates his willingness to defend his wife and family from personal attacks by political rivals.

The details

In recent comments, Trump mocked Macron over a video that appeared to show the French president in a physical altercation with his wife Brigitte. However, Macron has denied any such incident took place and accused Trump of making "unacceptable" remarks. The French president fired back, saying Trump was "still recovering from the right to the jaw" - an apparent reference to Trump's past controversies and scandals.

  • On February 24, 2025, Trump and Macron met in the Oval Office of the White House.
  • In early April 2026, Trump made the comments mocking Macron over the alleged altercation with his wife.

The players

Emmanuel Macron

The current President of France, known for his outspoken criticism of former US President Donald Trump.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, known for his controversial and combative style of politics.

Brigitte Macron

The wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, who was the subject of Trump's mocking comments.

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What they’re saying

“The comments made by Mr. Trump are unacceptable. He is still recovering from the right to the jaw.”

— Emmanuel Macron, President of France

The takeaway

This latest exchange between Macron and Trump underscores the ongoing political tensions between France and the US, even after Trump's presidency. Macron's forceful defense of his wife demonstrates his willingness to stand up to personal attacks from political rivals, highlighting his combative leadership style.