Trump mocks French President Emmanuel Macron over his use of sunglasses during a speech at the Davos World Economic Forum.

 

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the US and France over political and economic issues.

US President Donald Trump used his Wednesday speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos to sharply mock French President Emmanuel Macron, who had appeared the previous day wearing sunglasses indoors.

 

Trump quipped, “I saw him yesterday with those beautiful glasses… what the hell happened?” eliciting laughter from the audience while underscoring the escalating tensions between the two leaders.

 

Medical explanation

Macron’s indoor use of sunglasses sparked controversy, with the French presidency explaining it was a precaution due to a minor blood vessel burst in his eye, a benign condition that posed no health risk.

 

Read more: VIDEOS: Trump addresses World Economic Forum in Davos

 

International media noted that the incident occurs amid ongoing friction between Washington and Paris, marked in recent years by mutual criticism over trade and diplomatic policies.

 

From cordiality to confrontation

During the same forum, Macron criticized Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on European goods, while Trump responded with sharp remarks targeting European leaders.

 

 

Despite past friendly interactions, including a cordial call in 2025 when Macron’s motorcade stopped in New York to speak with Trump on international matters, recent exchanges reveal that the relationship remains vulnerable to conflict. Trump’s repeated verbal attacks, extending beyond the sunglasses incident to trade and political disputes, illustrate the depth of disagreement between the two allies.