Trump Says ‘The World Is Going a Little Crazy’ During Meetings With Zelensky and Macron at Notre-Dame Reopening: Live

PARIS — President-elect Donald Trump marked his return to the international spotlight on Saturday, joining global leaders for the reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

This high-profile event came just weeks after Trump’s re-election victory and ahead of his return to the White House in January.

Before the ceremony, Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Élysée Palace.

Trump commented on current global challenges, “The world is going a little crazy right now. We’ll be talking about that.”

Amid his Paris visit, Trump’s endorsement of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense drew attention.

Hegseth, a former Fox News host, faces backlash over allegations of sexual harassment and concerns about his stance on women in combat.

Vice President-elect JD Vance supported Trump’s choice, dismissing media criticism as “fake news.” Despite rumours of Senator Joni Ernst being considered an alternative, Hegseth spent the week on Capitol Hill rallying for confirmation support.

Meanwhile, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan described the transition process between the Biden administration and Trump’s team as “professional” and “substantive.”

Speaking at the Reagan National Defense Forum, Sullivan emphasised the importance of a smooth handover, stating, “We don’t see eye to eye on every issue, but it is our job to ensure this transition serves the American people.”

As Trump prepares to assume office on January 20, his Paris visit underscores both his renewed diplomatic engagements and the ongoing controversies shaping his administration’s transition.