Trump signs US-Iran MOU at Versailles after late-night printer search

U.S. President Donald Trump made a surprise move by signing a memorandum of understanding with Iran to end their conflict on June 17, two days ahead of the initially scheduled date. The unexpected signing ceremony took place at the Palace of Versailles in France, rather than the planned location in Switzerland.

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It wasn't easy. It really wasn't.

The hurried nature of the event led to a late-night scramble by U.S. and French aides to find a printer within the historic palace. French media reported that upon Trump's arrival for a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron, his staff informed him that the Iran agreement was finalized. Trump then expressed his intention to sign it as soon as possible with Macron.

Finding a working printer in a 17th-century palace proved challenging. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reportedly requested a printer from French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. After a diligent search by French staff, a printer was secured, allowing Pompeo to present the freshly printed memorandum at the banquet hall just before dinner was fully served. The signing was officially noted at 11:12 p.m. local time.

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Bravo

Trump signed the document between Macron and French First Lady Brigitte Macron, remarking, "It wasn't easy. It really wasn't." Macron applauded the move. French Finance Minister Michel Sapin noted that even cabinet ministers were surprised by the sudden signing. The early signing was reportedly driven by a complete agreement between the U.S. and Iran on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, prompting them to expedite the process rather than wait until Friday.

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Trump said during the G7 summit and dinner, 'Ah, by the way, we have reached a good agreement with Iran, and we will sign it here now.' I saw Mike Pompeo leave, and I don't know if he printed it or went to print it, but he returned with the document a little later. The plates on the table had to be cleared.