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Trump, Macron, and Zelensky Seek 'Peace Through Strength' in Paris Talks Before Notre-Dame Reopening

Dec 7, 2024, 05:51 PM

President-elect Donald Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris ahead of the reopening ceremony of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The leaders held a trilateral meeting at the Élysée Palace, which lasted 35 minutes, to discuss global challenges, including the situation in Ukraine. Prior to the meeting, Trump remarked, "The world is a little crazy right now," explaining his visit to address these challenges. President Zelensky commented that "Peace through strength is possible" and described the meeting as "good and productive," expressing gratitude to Trump and Macron. Macron acted as mediator during the talks, aiming to bring the American and Ukrainian positions closer ahead of Trump's presidency. President-elect Trump also greeted U.S. Marines stationed in France, demonstrating his commitment to American forces abroad. The Notre-Dame Cathedral, restored at a cost of approximately $770 million, financed largely through global donations, is set to reopen with global leaders, including Trump, Macron, and Zelensky, in attendance.