Trump mocks Emmanuel Macron’s sunglasses during Davos speech, draws laughs from audience

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND: President Donald Trump injected humor into his World Economic Forum address on Wednesday, January 21, when he publicly mocked French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent choice of aviator sunglasses, sending ripples of laughter through the audience. The offhand jab quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the Davos summit. 

Trump’s remark came just a day after Macron turned heads by wearing aviator sunglasses while speaking indoors to delegates at the World Economic Forum. The French president offered no explanation for the unusual accessory at the time, prompting widespread curiosity and commentary.

Trump jokes about Emmanuel Macron’s sunglasses at Davos

While delivering his lengthy speech, President Donald Trump briefly shifted from policy to personality, drawing attention to French President Emmanuel Macron’s appearance. Referring to the French leader’s sunglasses, Trump quipped, “what the hell happened?” prompting laughter from attendees.

He continued with a sarcastic nod to Macron’s look, referencing “those beautiful sunglasses,” clearly enjoying the crowd’s reaction.

The moment stood out amid an otherwise serious address focused on economics, trade, and international relations at the World Economic Forum. Despite the mockery, Trump’s tone softened as he spoke about Macron personally, signaling that the comment was more playful than hostile.

Macron wore sunglasses at Davos due to eye injury, aides confirm

French President Emmanuel Macron’s eyewear choice had already sparked discussion before President Donald Trump’s remarks. Earlier in the week, Macron was seen attending a military event in southern France with a visibly red eye. He later addressed the issue himself, describing it as a “totally benign” and “completely insignificant” condition.

Following the Davos appearance, the French president’s office clarified that the decision to wear sunglasses indoors was made to protect his eyes due to a ruptured blood vessel. The explanation came after photos and videos of Macron’s speech circulated widely, drawing both amusement and speculation.

Trump praises Macron, knocks France on drug prices

After poking fun at French President Emmanuel Macron’s sunglasses, President Donald Trump pivoted to praise, recalling a previous meeting between the two leaders. He described Macron as “tough,” particularly during discussions around prescription drug pricing.

“I like him, I actually like him. Hard to believe, isn’t it?” Trump said, again prompting laughter from the audience.

However, the humor quickly gave way to criticism. Trump accused France of taking advantage of the United States when it comes to prescription drug costs, claiming the imbalance has persisted for more than three decades.

Trump told the Davos audience that he had warned Macron about the possibility of additional tariffs after France declined to raise drug prices. The comment underscored a familiar theme in Trump’s global messaging—that America has been treated unfairly in trade relationships and must push back, even against close allies.