PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has often claimed he can reach U.S. President Donald Trump anytime. This was showcased during his visit to New York for the U.N. General Assembly, when he demonstrated just that.
On Monday evening, while trying to cross a street blocked by police for a VIP motorcade, Macron called up Trump to inform him of the gridlock he was facing.
“How are you?” Macron began. “Guess what? I’m waiting in the street because everything is frozen for you!” French media reported that Trump was indeed on the line, a detail confirmed by a French official.
Macron explained to the officers that he was heading to France's diplomatic mission after delivering a speech at the U.N., where he announced that France officially recognizes Palestinian statehood.
With ten aides in tow, Macron discussed getting through the blockage, while a police officer informed him, “I'm really sorry, it’s just that everything's frozen right now.”
Despite the disruption, the conversation with Trump allowed Macron to discuss the worsening situation in Gaza. He expressed a desire to have a conversation with Qatar and Trump about the matter over the coming weekend.
Eventually, after a few minutes, the street reopened, allowing Macron to continue on his way.
At the U.N., France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood was positioned as a significant step towards constructing a two-state solution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
