Macron Considers Versailles Dinner to Keep Trump Engaged at G7 Summit

French President Emmanuel Macron is exploring unconventional diplomatic tactics, including a private dinner at the Palace of Versailles, to ensure President Donald Trump's active participation in the upcoming G7 summit. The summit is scheduled to take place from June 15-17 in Évian-les-Bains.

French officials are reportedly considering a small dinner at the historic royal residence, hoping such a personalized approach will encourage Trump to remain engaged in critical discussions on global security and economic issues, including the war in Ukraine and Middle East tensions. While Trump has indicated his intention to attend, French diplomats are cautious, recalling instances where he has left international meetings early.

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Everything is possible. There is also a golf course in Évian.

The G7 summit occurs amidst significant global uncertainties, including the Iran-Israel conflict and limited prospects for a diplomatic resolution between Washington and Tehran. French officials are working to manage these complexities, with one source close to the administration stating that Trump's participation is "almost confirmed" but plans remain flexible, even considering options like a golf outing.

European leaders have long sought effective ways to engage with Trump, whose approach to multilateral organizations like NATO and the G7 has often been critical. Past ceremonial and personalized meetings are seen by some Western diplomats as having facilitated constructive dialogue. However, current relations are strained by divergences on issues like Ukraine, Iran, and trade policy. A French parliamentarian described the summit as an event that Europeans "must simply manage carefully," prioritizing the avoidance of past diplomatic disruptions caused by Trump.

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The summit is an event that Europeans 'must simply manage carefully.'