Just weeks after making controversial remarks about French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte, Donald Trump found himself at the center of another headline-making moment involving France’s first lady.
During the 2026 G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, an unusually long handshake between Trump and Brigitte Macron sparked widespread discussion online. Now, a professional lip reader claims to have uncovered what was said during the encounter.
An Uncomfortable Greeting?
As world leaders gathered for the annual summit, Trump was welcomed by Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron. After exchanging cheek kisses with the French first lady, Trump reportedly held onto her hand for several seconds, creating what many viewers described as an awkward scene.
Video footage of the greeting quickly circulated across social media, with users comparing the moment to the famously intense handshakes Trump and Macron have shared in the past.
Some viewers criticized Trump for not releasing Brigitte’s hand sooner, while others dismissed the interaction as harmless.
Added Attention Due To Earlier Comments
The handshake drew even more attention because it followed recent comments Trump allegedly made about the French first couple.
During a private event earlier this year, Trump reportedly mocked Macron and referenced a viral video involving Brigitte Macron, remarks that were later criticized by the French president as inappropriate.
As a result, many observers viewed the G7 greeting through the lens of those earlier tensions.
What Did Trump Say?
According to lip reader Nicola Hickling, Trump first greeted Emmanuel Macron before turning to Brigitte.
Hickling claims Trump told Macron, “I’m ready for tonight,” followed by “Pleasure.”
She further alleges that Trump then greeted Brigitte with the words, “Hello, sweetheart.”
Brigitte is said to have responded by wishing Trump a happy birthday, as the U.S. president had recently celebrated turning 80 on June 14.
The interpretation has not been independently verified.
Body Language Experts Offer Their View
Body language analyst Judi James also weighed in on the encounter, suggesting Trump appeared especially enthusiastic when greeting Brigitte Macron.
According to James, Trump moved quickly toward France’s first lady, greeting her warmly with cheek kisses, while Macron appeared eager to join the interaction.
She also noted that Trump continued holding Brigitte’s hand as the group began walking, a detail that further fueled online debate.
Social Media Reacts
As expected, reactions online were sharply divided. Critics described the gesture as overly familiar and uncomfortable, while supporters argued it was simply a friendly exchange between world leaders and their spouses.
Whether viewed as awkward, harmless, or somewhere in between, the brief moment became one of the most talked-about scenes from this year’s G7 Summit.
What do you think? Was the interaction inappropriate, or are people reading too much into it?