French President Emmanuel Macron has said there is “no need to be violent and disrespectful” in democratic societies, responding to a controversy triggered by US President Donald Trump’s decision to share private text messages between the two leaders.
Speaking during his three-day visit to India, Macron addressed the issue in a conversation with Indian podcaster Raj Shamani on the show ‘Figuring Out’. While he did not directly criticise Trump for making the messages public, Macron underlined the importance of mutual respect in international relations.
“I really believe that respect is a part of leadership,” Macron said. “We can share ideas or not, you can disagree, but you have to do it in a respectful way.”
‘Surprising’ to See Leaders Go Backwards
When asked whether the world should be concerned about the direction of American leadership, Macron said it was “surprising” to see leaders appear to move “backwards in the civilisation process.”
“Respect was built over decades and years to improve ourselves,” he said. “It’s a little bit surprising for people to see leaders going backwards. And it’s not the right message.”
Macron also reiterated his commitment to countering hate speech and violence in democratic societies, stressing that leadership must be exercised responsibly and inclusively.
Tensions Over Board of Peace and Trade Threats
The remarks come amid growing friction between France and the United States over Trump’s proposed ‘Board of Peace’, an initiative designed to oversee post-war development efforts in Gaza.
France declined the invitation to join the board, citing concerns over the absence of explicit references to Gaza and the broader Israel-Palestine conflict in its charter. In response, Trump warned of imposing 200% tariffs on French wines and champagnes, suggesting that economic pressure could influence Paris’s decision.
Shortly afterward, Trump posted private text exchanges with Macron on Truth Social. The messages reportedly included discussions about US strategic interests, including Greenland, further intensifying diplomatic tensions.
Diplomatic Courtesy in Focus
Macron’s comments signal a call for measured and respectful engagement between global leaders, even amid sharp policy disagreements. His remarks highlight broader concerns about maintaining diplomatic norms at a time of heightened geopolitical sensitivity.
