Sadia J. Choudhury
New York, September 23, 2025 — An unusual scene unfolded on the streets of New York when French President Emmanuel Macron was forced to walk after his car was halted by U.S. President Donald Trump’s motorcade. Security protocols froze the entire area, leaving Macron’s vehicle stranded.
Police officers reportedly told the French leader: “Sir, everything is frozen. President Trump’s motorcade is coming.” Macron responded with a touch of humor: “If I can’t go, then I’ll just walk.”
And walk he did. Accompanied by his security team, Macron spent nearly 30 minutes walking through New York’s busy streets. Along the way, passersby stopped to greet him, take selfies, and even plant a kiss on his forehead. Macron cheerfully obliged, smiling and posing for photos.
In a lighthearted twist, Macron even phoned Trump during the incident, saying:
“Guess what? I’m still stuck in the street because everything has been shut down for you.”
Earlier, in his address at the United Nations, the French president took a firm stance on the Middle East conflict, declaring: “It is time to recognize a Palestinian state — one that includes Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.” He added with emphasis: “The war, the killings, and the deaths in Gaza must come to an end.”
The episode has sparked both curiosity and commentary worldwide. Observers note that Macron’s willingness to walk like an ordinary citizen — despite his high office — projected a more human and approachable image of the French president.
