Prince William was all smiles as he welcomed Donald Trump to the British Embassy in Paris - as the US President-elect hailed him as a 'good one'
In their meeting following the historic reopening of Notre-Dame, Donald Trump expressed admiration for Prince William, calling him a "good man" and praising his work, saying he was "doing a fantastic job." The encounter, held at the British ambassador's residence in Paris, marked Trump’s first meeting with a member of the Royal Family since his election victory.
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U.S. President-elect Donald Trump meets Britain's Prince William at the UK Ambassador's Residence in Paris
The two exchanged warm words and shared a handshake, with Trump commenting positively on the Notre-Dame ceremony, describing it as a "beautiful" event. They discussed a range of global issues, with a particular focus on the UK-US relationship, as Trump reflected on fond memories of the late Queen. The meeting lasted for about 40 minutes.
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The Prince of Wales and US President-elect Donal Trump were all smiles when they met at the residence of the British ambassador in Paris yesterday
Prince William's planned private meeting with Donald Trump was disrupted by Storm Darragh, which caused travel delays, forcing the Prince to reschedule his meeting with both Trump and First Lady Jill Biden. Instead of a private discussion, Prince William and Jill Biden spoke briefly on the sidelines of the Notre-Dame ceremony.
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Exchanging another warm handshake with William as he entered the foyer, the US President-elect turned to reporters and said 'wow, what a nice group'
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Prince William and Jill Biden were expected to meet ahead of the ceremony but will now chat on the side-lines of the event due to delays in the William's travel due to Storm Darragh
Later, after the ceremony, Trump and William had their rescheduled conversation in the Salon Jaune room. They sat on light-yellow sofas, surrounded by festive decorations, including a Christmas tree and a chandelier. Before starting the meeting, William lightheartedly mentioned warming their toes after the cathedral visit, to which Trump smiled and agreed.
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In what was Trump's first meeting with a member of the Royal Family since his landslide election victory last month, he praised the Prince, quipping: 'Good man, this one.'
The discussions lasted for over half an hour. Inside the cathedral, before the meeting, Prince William and Trump shared a warm handshake as part of the cordial atmosphere surrounding the historic reopening of Notre-Dame.
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The Prince of Wales and US President-elect Donald Trump standing side by side at the foyer of the residence of the British ambassador in Paris
When Prince William met Donald Trump at the ceremonial reopening of Notre-Dame, Trump greeted him with his signature "clasp and yank" handshake, where he extended his hand, grasped William’s shoulder, and pulled him in. This move, often seen as a display of dominance, was noted by body language experts. Despite the forceful gesture, Prince William appeared unfazed and engaged in a cordial exchange with Trump before being released from the grip.
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The Prince of Wales shook hands with US President-elect Donald Trump
In contrast, William’s greeting with Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, was more formal. Rather than the continental cheek kiss that Trump offered, William opted for a brief hand clasp. Similarly, his handshake with President Macron was polite but much less vigorous compared to the powerful handshake between Trump and Macron, which was described as almost awkward.
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Prince William has arrived at the glamorous reopening of the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris alongside world leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron (Pictured with Brigitte Macron)
William attended the event in France at the request of the UK government to mark the completion of the £600 million restoration of Notre-Dame, which had been severely damaged by a fire five years prior.
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The hirsuite Prince is all smiles ahead of the ceremony yesterday
Prince William, dressed in a long dark navy coat, was warmly welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte at the Notre-Dame Cathedral ahead of the historic reopening ceremony. Inside the cathedral, the atmosphere was electric as applause erupted when Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky entered the building, which was filled with 40 world leaders and various celebrities, including Elon Musk and Salma Hayek.
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Guests stand as the doors to Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral open during a ceremony to mark the re-opening
The ceremony began with the resounding chimes of Notre-Dame’s iconic bourdon bell, created in 1683 and named Emmanuel by its godfather, Louis XIV. Weighing 13 tons, this bell is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Europe and was the only one to survive the French Revolution. Its deep F-sharp tone marked the start of the event, echoing through the heart of Paris.
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The French and US world leader and Brigitte Macron stand side by side as guests fill the historic cathedral
Shortly before the bell rang, Donald Trump arrived at the ceremony after a meeting with President Macron at The Élysée Palace, which was attended by Zelensky. The event was a momentous occasion, celebrating both the restoration of the cathedral and the gathering of such notable figures.
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Macron and Brigitte watch Paris' archbishop Laurent Ulrich inaugurating the Notre Dame de Paris cathedral
President Emmanuel Macron expressed his "great honour" in hosting Donald Trump at the Élysée Palace ahead of the historic ceremony at Notre-Dame. This meeting marked Trump's first international trip since his victory over Kamala Harris in November. The two leaders, along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, engaged in discussions about a world that Trump described as having "gone a little crazy."
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Guests stand as Church Banners are paraded through the cathedral ahead of the clergy entering
 The clergy make their way down the central isle of the Notre Dame cathedral in central Paris |
Zelensky, seen firmly shaking hands with Élysée Director of Protocol Frédéric Billet, joined the trilateral talks with Trump and Macron. The meeting was particularly significant due to concerns over Trump's past comments about quickly ending the Russo-Ukraine conflict, which raised fears that he might try to impose peace terms favorable to Russia.
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A roaring applause could be heard in the cathedral as the President of Ukraine - Volodymyr Zelensky - entered
After the talks, the three leaders posed together, with Macron giving a thumbs-up to the camera, before heading to the Notre-Dame Cathedral for its official reopening. Zelensky later confirmed that the discussions were "good and productive," emphasizing that all parties are committed to ending the war as soon as possible and in a just manner. He shared on X (formerly Twitter): "We spoke about our people, the situation on the ground, and a just peace."
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Donald Trump firmly shakes the hand of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelesnky inside the Notre Dame
On social media, President Macron shared a picture of the three world leaders, writing: "United States, Ukraine, and France. Together on this historic day. Gathered for Notre-Dame. Let us continue our joint efforts for peace and security." The image showed Macron and Trump sitting side by side at the historic event, with Zelensky seated nearby to their right.
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Elon Musk arriving at the ceremony at the centuries old cathedral last night in Paris
Macron, who has had a fluctuating relationship with Trump, has focused on building a connection with the President-elect since his victory over Kamala Harris in last month's US election. Despite this, Macron's office downplayed the significance of the invitation, noting that other former politicians were also invited to the event.
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Macron points as he talks with the US President-elect and his wife Brigitte inside the Notre Dame
Outside Notre-Dame, a small group of Americans gathered to protest against Trump, as reported by AP, highlighting some opposition to his presence at the ceremony.
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Firefighters, rescuers as well as builders involved in the restoration of the cathedral are applauded by guests
 An eruption of applause echoed throughout the cathedral for the brave firefighters and builders for their work in saving the historic building |
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Guests and onlookers applauded for one minute in honour of the 160 firefighters (Pictured in Notre Dame) who played a key role in saving the cathedral from complete destruction |
Outside Notre-Dame, a small but vocal group of American protesters expressed discontent with President-elect Donald Trump's presence at the historic reopening. The demonstrators held a banner reading "Paris Against Trump" and criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for extending the invitation.
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Post-talks the three world leaders were seen pictured alongside one another before heading to the Notre Dame, as Macron posed a thumbs up for the camera
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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky shakes hands with The Elysee's director of protocol Frederic Billet
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Zelensky is welcomed by Billet before meeting with Macron on December 7
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Macron poses with US President Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky before a trilateral meeting at the Elysse Palace in Paris
Ehlyr O'Rourke, a 34-year-old spokesperson for the group, expressed their frustration, stating:
"We find this a bit shameful and sad that Trump is invited here, especially since he has gone against everything the Church stands for. We don't understand why a criminal, a sex offender, a felon can actually be invited in here."
The protest highlighted lingering tensions surrounding Trump's controversial reputation, even as Macron's government emphasized the broad inclusivity of the event, which featured numerous global figures from both political and cultural spheres.
During the historic reopening of Notre-Dame, French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating the extraordinary global effort that made the restoration of the iconic cathedral possible in just five years—a feat that took nearly two centuries to achieve when it was first built.
"Brotherhood from all continents, from all religions, from all walks of life, all united in hope," Macron declared, reflecting on the worldwide contributions to the ambitious restoration project.
Concluding his remarks to a standing ovation, Macron proclaimed:
"Notre-Dame de Paris has been returned to you; you have made this possible. Long live Notre-Dame de Paris, long live the Republic, long live France."
Macron also acknowledged the resilience and unity of the French people in bringing the landmark back to life:
"We must treasure this lesson of fragility, humility, and will, and never forget how much each person counts, and how the greatness of this cathedral is inseparable from the work of all."
In a poignant moment of gratitude, the audience applauded for one minute to honor the 160 firefighters who were instrumental in preventing the cathedral’s complete destruction during the devastating 2019 fire. To further commemorate their bravery, the word "Merci" was projected onto the cathedral's facade, a luminous tribute to the emergency responders who safeguarded a piece of global heritage.
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French Police officers perform security checks on members of the public near the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, on December 7
Pope Francis, though absent from the Notre-Dame reopening ceremony, offered a poignant reflection on its symbolic importance. He expressed hope that the cathedral's "rebirth" would serve as a "prophetic sign of the renewal of the Church in France" and called for the historic site to remain freely accessible to visitors as it reopens its doors.
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Archbishop Ulrich reading at the beginning of the ceremony marking the Notre Dame's re-opening
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Archbishop Ulrich inaugurating the Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral by knocking on the doors during the reopening ceremony |
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Emotional locals outside the Notre Dame to witness last night's historic event |
The sentiment of unity and global harmony echoed throughout the event. Philippe Jost, the chief of the cathedral's renovation project, stated:
"Notre-Dame de Paris unites. There are so many divisive factors. An event like this must unite, must help concord and peace to grow throughout the world."
The ceremony, led by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, welcomed world leaders, dignitaries, and worshippers who had gathered to commemorate the occasion. Despite initial plans for outdoor elements, the entire celebration was moved indoors due to 50 mph gusts of wind and heavy rain disrupting the evening’s activities.
Inside the resplendent cathedral, restored after the devastating 2019 fire, the atmosphere was one of profound reverence and celebration. The event emphasized Notre-Dame's enduring significance as a beacon of faith, history, and cultural unity.
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French Prime Minister Michel Barnier attending the welcome ceremony of Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris was marked by a blend of solemnity and grandeur, underscoring its dual role as a site of spiritual devotion and a symbol of global cultural heritage. Reverend Olivier Ribadeau Dumas, the cathedral's rector, described the moment as a triumph of unity and resilience, saying:
"The cathedral is a magnificent symbol of unity, a sign of hope, because what seemed impossible has become possible."
The ceremony began with Archbishop Laurent Ulrich symbolically reopening the cathedral's grand wooden doors, a gesture steeped in tradition. Using a staff crafted from charred wood salvaged from the roof destroyed in the 2019 fire, he tapped the doors three times, officially declaring the cathedral open for worship.
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Arnault family arrive inside Notre Dame Cathedral ahead of a ceremony to mark the re-opening of the landmark cathedral
Inside, the cathedral came alive with psalms, prayers, and hymns. The 8,000-pipe organ, which had been silenced since the fire, resonated once again as four organists performed an improvised interplay of melodies, filling the vast space with a sense of renewal and celebration.
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Actress Salma Hayek and her husband CEO of Kering Francois-Henri Pinault sit inside Notre Dame Cathedral ahead of the ceremony
Tightened Security for Dignitaries
The presence of numerous world leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump, heightened security measures around the cathedral and other key sites in Paris. The French national police worked alongside the US Secret Service, deploying over 6,000 security personnel, including gendarmes, military forces, and specialized units like the GIGN.
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Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife French-Italian singer and model Carla Bruni-Sarkozy
Anti-drone technology was utilized to secure the airspace around the cathedral, and rooftop snipers and rapid-intervention teams were on standby to ensure the safety of attendees. Despite these precautions, the event retained its celebratory and reverent tone, drawing together dignitaries and worshippers from around the globe to witness this historic moment.
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Former French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal talks with other guests inside Notre Dame Cathedral ahead of the ceremony
The reopening is a testament to international cooperation and dedication, highlighting Notre-Dame's enduring legacy as a symbol of hope, unity, and faith.
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Millions watched on in horror as an inferno ravaged Notre Dame in April 2019
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris has heightened security measures, reflecting concerns over potential threats from groups such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS, who have targeted Paris in the past decade. Laurence Nuñez, Paris' police prefect, emphasized the elevated risk, stating that "the terrorist threat is at its highest."
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Prince William (right) accepted an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron (left) to attend Notre Dame's grand re-opening, on Saturday
Key security elements include:
- Crotale New Generation short-range air defense systems, providing mobile protection against aerial threats.
- Restricted access to the Île de la Cité, allowing entry only for residents, invitees, and essential personnel.
- Security protocols mirroring those employed during the Paris Olympics earlier this year.
Given the backdrop of global unrest, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, the stringent measures underline the symbolic importance of Notre-Dame's reopening. These precautions aim to protect not only the historic site but also the dignitaries, including world leaders, attending the event.
The reopening celebrations of Notre-Dame de Paris have attracted global attention, blending culture, faith, and unity in a monumental tribute to its restoration.
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A view inside Notre-Dame of Paris Cathedral before its reopening on December 6
Highlights of the Event
- Public Viewing Areas: Along the Seine's southern bank, 40,000 spectators gathered to watch the ceremony on large screens, emphasizing the communal spirit of the event.
- Star-Studded Concert: Inside the cathedral, world-renowned performers, including pianist Lang Lang, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and soprano Pretty Yende, delivered breathtaking performances, symbolizing harmony and resilience.
Upcoming Milestones
- Inaugural Mass: On Sunday, Archbishop Laurent Ulrich will lead the first Mass since the fire and consecrate a new altar. Designed by Guillaume Bardet, this altar replaces the one destroyed beneath the cathedral's flaming spire in 2019. Tickets for the Mass, made available to Catholics online, sold out in just 25 minutes.
- Clerical Representation: The Mass will host 170 bishops from around the world and clergy from all 113 parishes of Paris, emphasizing the cathedral's significance to the Catholic Church.
Notre-Dame's Enduring Symbolism
Notre-Dame remains a beacon of hope and unity. Rector Rev. Olivier Ribadeau Dumas highlighted its profound spiritual resonance, describing it as "a magnificent symbol of unity, a sign of hope," enriched by "the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary."
With dignitaries spanning Africa, the Middle East, the U.S., and beyond, the event underlines the cathedral’s role as a shared global treasure and a testament to the power of collective action and peace.
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris serves as a poignant counterpoint to France's current political and economic turmoil, showcasing the resilience and unity embodied by the iconic cathedral.
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