French President Emmanuel Macron found himself briefly halted on a New York street Monday night after police closed the road for a VIP motorcade—prompting him to call US President Donald Trump directly while waiting.
Macron, who was in New York for the United Nations General Assembly, was attempting to walk to France’s diplomatic mission after delivering a speech. As he approached the street, New York Police Department officers informed him it was temporarily closed for security reasons.
Video recorded by French media showed Macron taking out his phone and contacting Trump. A French official later confirmed to the Associated Press that the U.S. president was on the line.
Speaking in a casual tone, Macron told Trump he was held up in the street because everything was shut down for the American leader’s motorcade. He then explained the situation to the officers, saying he had ten people with him and needed to cross.
Security delay becomes diplomatic opportunity
One officer apologized, saying the area was locked down for a short time. Macron continued speaking with Trump, using the opportunity to raise international concerns. He expressed interest in arranging a discussion with Trump and Qatari officials about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
A few minutes later, once the motorcade had cleared, police reopened the street and Macron resumed his walk.
Earlier that day, Macron had addressed the U.N. General Assembly, where he announced that France now formally recognizes Palestinian statehood. The declaration was part of a broader effort to reignite global support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The brief sidewalk incident between Macron, Trump, and the NYPD highlighted the tight security and diplomatic activity surrounding the annual U.N. gathering. It also served as a reminder of Macron’s close working relationship with Trump, particularly on urgent international matters.
A quick call with broader implications
The French media, which filmed the scene, reported that Macron’s call to Trump was spontaneous. His mention of the blocked street and the ongoing situation in Gaza made it both a lighthearted and strategic exchange, all taking place on a New York sidewalk.
