While they have long maintained a cordial, even intimate, relationship, the relationship between the two heads of state now appears more tense than ever. The sign of an imminent breakup? Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist, deciphers for us this possible end of bromance.
A relationship that questions
If at first glance, the two presidents seem to display two completely different characters – one is flamboyant, unpredictable and provocative, the other is more measured and diplomatic – they have, despite these differences, been able to forge a rare relationship. A sort of “political bromance“, based on mutual respect, complicity and a form of reciprocal admiration.
As soon as Trump was elected in 2024, Macron was among the first to warmly congratulate him. Their relationship was often also punctuated by strong symbolic gestures: extended handshakes, displayed familiarity and knowing smiles in front of the cameras. “An almost theatrical relationship“, admits Amélie Boukhobza.
But all that… now seems to be a thing of the past. For some time now, the American president has taken great pleasure in “tackle” the head of the French government. “No one wants him, because he will soon be without a mandate”he even proclaimed to journalists in Florida.
The President of the United States even threatened to introduce 200% customs duties on French wines and champagnes, after Emmanuel Macron refused to invite him to join his “Peace Council”. The Macron-Trump bromance therefore seems to be turning sour… and this cooling raises questions.
“Serious diplomacy cannot be based on sympathy”
From a psychological point of view“what was happening there obviously has nothing to do with friendship, but with a game of mirrors“, reminds the psychologist in the preamble.
“Donald Trump works a lot on narcissistic recognition: being admired, impressing, symbolically dominating. Emmanuel Macron understood this language very well. He has entered the relational register of the other to exist in his field. Strategic adaptation requires. Obviously, any relationship based on this type of dynamic is unstable by nature.” analyzes the expert.
A relationship that lasts as long as everyone finds an immediate benefit: enhancement for one, influence for the other. “As soon as interests diverge, or one no longer finds what they want, the link is undone. Unsurprisingly, assures the psychologist.
So should we be worried? Not really, says the practitioner.
“There was in reality nothing solid. It was not a link, but a tool. Useful at certain moments, then put aside. Serious diplomacy cannot be based on sympathy, but on clear balance of power and assumed interests. Politician politics”, admits Amélie Boukhobza.
Ultimately, what appeals to the specialist more is our collective fascination with this type of relational staging. “As if we needed to believe it. As if visible good understanding reassured us. It’s quite funny,”
she admits.
Basically, this bromance between Macron and Trump reminds us that diplomacy is based as much on our illusions as on the balance of power…