“United we stand, divided we fall”
At a state dinner, Macron toasted Biden, saying, “United we stand, divided we fall. Allied we are and allied we will stay.”
Source: The White House/Wikimedia Commons
Biden and Macron participated in ceremonies on Thursday marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day and met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris the following day to emphasize the importance of supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion.
Both Leaders Agree the Need to Back Kyiv
Despite often differing on the pace of support for Ukraine, especially with the U.S. having paused aid shipments due to congressional delays, both leaders stressed the urgency of backing Kyiv.
Source: vwalakte, Freepik
The state visit began with a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, including a wreath-laying at France’s tomb of the unknown soldier and a military parade leading to the Élysée Palace.
“Unyielding as well as unwavering in our partnership”
Official meetings and public statements followed, with Macron and his wife hosting a state dinner for Biden and his wife.
Source: Wikimedia
Biden affirmed the steadfast partnership between the U.S. and France, stating, “unyielding as well as unwavering in our partnership,” and adding, “That’s what democracies do.”
Alliance Dating Back to Revolutionary War
The focus on the Ukraine conflict underscored the strength of their long-standing alliance, which dates back to the Revolutionary War.
Source: Freepik
Biden, describing himself as a student of French history, called the visit a “great honor” and reiterated, “France was our first friend. It remains one of our best friends.”
Strong U.S. – French Relationship
Macron praised Biden for his clarity and loyalty as a partner, subtly contrasting this with former President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy, which had strained European relations.
Source: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
In a statement of principles, the presidents highlighted the U.S.-French relationship and the sacrifices made for peace and freedom, reaffirming their commitment to a unified and peaceful Europe.
Macron Praises Biden
Macron, who had hosted Trump for Bastille Day in 2017, noted their differing views on supporting Ukraine but acknowledged their agreement on the importance of the issue.
Source: Freepik
He also praised Biden’s leadership, thanking him for standing by Europe.
Macron is Hopeful
Macron expressed hope that the upcoming G7 meeting in Italy would result in a $50 billion “solidarity fund” for Ukraine, backed by sanctioned Russian assets.
Source: Wikimedia
The leaders also celebrated the rescue of four hostages by Israeli forces, with Biden emphasizing continued efforts to secure the release of all hostages and a cease-fire in Gaza.
Trade Practices
Macron supported Biden’s cease-fire proposal to allow more humanitarian aid into the territory.
Source: Wikimedia
Trade practices were another topic of discussion, with Macron criticizing the U.S. for its protectionist policies under the Inflation Reduction Act.
U.S. & Europe to Coordinate Together
Biden suggested coordination between the U.S. and Europe and mentioned his recent conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Biden previously hosted Macron in December 2022 for the first state visit of his presidency.
Newlywed Veteran Among the Attendees
Among the attendees at Saturday’s dinner was World War II veteran Harold Terens and Jeanne Swerlin, newlyweds married inland of the D-Day beaches.
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Macron congratulated the couple, leading the crowd in applause.
Macron’s Stuggle
As Biden’s trip concludes, the far right is expected to gain ground in Sunday’s European Parliament election.
Source: Wikimedia
On the other hand, Macron’s pro-European Union movement is seen to be struggling.