Macron finds himself in an awkward situation twice in the White House

Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron shared an awkward handshake after the U.S. president snubbed his French counterpart by not greeting him at the White House upon his arrival on Monday, The Independent writes.

Footage on the Internet showed the French president pulling up in a black car before he was welcomed into the West Wing by Acting White House Chief of Protocol Abigail Jones. Afterward, Macron was welcomed by Trump. The pair are meeting to discuss ending Russia’s war on Ukraine and the future of U.S. relations with Europe.

Additionally, Macron appeared in humiliating scenes during a live video meeting of G7 leaders to mark the third anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine. Images have revealed Macron in the corner of Trump’s Oval Office desk during a Zoom call with world leaders – while Trump sat in the middle, the Daily Mail writes.

According to the White House diplomatic protocol, the president of the United States is expected to personally greet a visiting head of state or government. If a lower-ranking official first greets the head of state of another country instead of the sitting U.S. president, it could be perceived as diplomatic slight, especially if it is a formal visit. However, in such cases, a number of circumstances must be taken into account. Sometimes, the president may have other commitments that prevent them from greeting a visiting leader immediately.