Emmanuel Macron calls Trump after getting stuck in NYC traffic caused by presidential motorcade
Priceless: Police in New York stops Macron's car, because the street is closed for Trump's convoy.
— Dr. Eli David (@DrEliDavid) September 23, 2025
Macron calls Trump to allow him to pass, but Trump humiliates Macron and tells him to walk instead, which he does 🤣
pic.twitter.com/K1cnWUOBrB
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: French President Emmanuel Macron got a dose of New York reality when his car was caught in gridlock caused by President Donald Trump’s motorcade, prompting the European leader to step out and walk through the streets of Manhattan, even calling Trump directly to ask for help.
A video posted by the French outlet Brut showed the French president chatting with an NYPD officer and making light of the unusual situation just after delivering a controversial speech at the United Nations.
French president stuck in UN traffic, calls Trump for help
Macron was filmed on Monday, September 24, standing beside his official car near the UN headquarters, attempting to convince an NYPD officer to let him through traffic. “I’m really sorry, Mr President, everything is currently blocked,” the officer is heard saying, as Macron pleads to know whether Trump’s convoy is about to pass.
Seemingly unfazed, Macron then calls President Trump and jokes, “How are you? Guess what, I’m waiting in the street because everything is closed for you,” drawing laughter from people nearby.
According to the outlet, the French leader ended up walking 30 minutes on foot to reach his next destination.
Emmanuel Macron walks Manhattan streets, poses with onlookers
Despite the security headaches, Macron appeared relaxed as he walked through the streets, taking selfies with passersby and laughing with his entourage. At one point, a man having his picture taken bent down and kissed the French president on the head, leading Macron to tell his startled security detail, “No, no, it’s okay, guys,” as he waved them off with a smile.
The NYPD later praised the officer involved and thanked Macron for seeing the humorous side. “Thousands of NYPD officers are on call this week to ensure the safety of all New Yorkers and our foreign dignitary guests during the UN General Assembly,” a spokesperson said.
“Merci to President Macron for recognising the dedication and tireless efforts of our officers who safeguard this annual event.”
Earlier that day, Macron used his speech at the UN to announce that France formally recognizes the “State of Palestine,” joining Australia, Canada, the UK and Portugal, which all made similar declarations in recent days.
The French president’s gesture, while largely symbolic, is intended to increase pressure on Israel to bring about an end to the conflict in Gaza, marking one of the most significant diplomatic moves of his administration so far.
