Trump Mocks Macron at Egypt Peace Summit Amid French Leadership Struggles

President Donald Trump publicly mocked French President Emmanuel Macron during a global summit in Egypt celebrating a peace deal between Israel and Hamas, humorously noting Macron's absence from the stage and prompting laughter from other world leaders familiar with Macron's reputation for vanity and grandstanding. Trump teased Macron for taking a "low-key approach" while Macron was spotted in the audience, reflecting the French leader's frequent attempts to assert prominence at international gatherings. Following the public jibe, Macron engaged Trump in a prolonged handshake on the sidelines, during which Trump appeared to assert dominance by pulling Macron close and directing his movements, a moment that drew significant media attention. The incident highlighted Macron's ongoing struggles with declining approval ratings and political challenges in France, including calls for his resignation. Meanwhile, Trump seemed aware of the optics, grinning at cameras after the exchange, underscoring the interplay of personal dynamics and public perception among world leaders. Separately, Trump's recent comments amid the federal government shutdown suggest growing political anxiety, as he urged Republicans to be tough and criticized the filibuster, actions seen by commentators as potentially damaging to his image amid ongoing political turmoil.