Trump Says ‘We’ve Had a Lot of Problems’ with France Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Tensions
November 12, 2025
US President Donald Trump openly criticized France on Monday, stating that “we’ve had a lot of problems with the French” during an interview with Fox News, highlighting ongoing strains in US-French relations.
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The remark came when Fox News host Laura Ingraham asked about the enrolment of Chinese students in American universities, saying, “They’re not the French, they’re the Chinese. They spy on us.” Trump interjected, responding, “Do you think the French are better, really? I will tell you, I’m not so sure.”
US-France Relations: A Complex Dynamic
Trump’s relationship with French President Emmanuel Macron has been highly visible over the years, marked by firm handshakes, backslaps, and public camaraderie, but also occasional tensions. Key points of friction include:
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Palestinian state recognition and climate policies, where Trump has publicly opposed Macron’s stances.
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Defense and NATO contributions, with the US pressuring Europe to increase military spending, while Macron represents Europe’s diplomatic efforts to maintain US support for Ukraine against Russia.
The two leaders maintain constant communication, with Macron even personally calling Trump in September regarding an incident in New York when he was blocked by the US presidential convoy en route to a UN meeting.
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The Bigger Picture
Trump’s comments reflect long-standing diplomatic and trade disagreements between the US and France, even as both countries cooperate on global issues. Analysts note that while public exchanges can appear tense, behind-the-scenes coordination on security, trade, and international policy continues to be crucial.
