French President Emmanuel Macron has extended his “full support” to U.S. President Donald Trump following an armed attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., an incident that prompted evacuations, injuries, and a federal investigation. The statement, issued on April 26, 2026, came amid international reactions condemning the violence and underscoring that it has no place in democratic societies.
In a post on X, Emmanuel Macron wrote: “The armed attack targeting the President of the United States last night is unacceptable. Violence has no place in a democracy. I extend my full support to Donald Trump.” The message directly referenced Donald Trump and emphasized both condemnation of the attack and solidarity with the U.S. president in the aftermath of the incident.
According to reporting from Reuters, the shooting unfolded around 8:35 p.m. ET at the Washington Hilton hotel, where the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner was being held. Guests took cover after shots were heard, and Secret Service agents quickly moved to evacuate Trump and members of his cabinet from the ballroom. Officials later said a lone gunman had rushed a security checkpoint in the hotel lobby area and was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives before being intercepted by Secret Service personnel.
Authorities said a Secret Service agent was injured during the confrontation and transported to a local hospital, while the suspect was also taken for medical evaluation after being subdued and handcuffed. Law enforcement officials exchanged gunfire with the suspect, though he was not struck. The event was initially interrupted and later postponed, with Trump stating it would be rescheduled within 30 days. He also praised the response of security personnel, saying they “acted quickly and bravely,” and noted that the suspect had been apprehended.
U.S. officials, including acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, said preliminary information suggested the suspect may have specifically targeted administration figures, possibly including the president. Trump himself stated he believed he was the intended target, noting this was part of a broader pattern of heightened political violence concerns. The attack was widely condemned by international leaders, who reiterated that violence must not be tolerated in democratic systems and expressed relief that those present were safe.
Macron’s message also comes against the backdrop of a long and complex relationship between him and Trump. The two leaders have at times maintained a publicly cordial “bromance” marked by symbolic gestures and personal diplomacy, while also experiencing repeated tensions over issues such as NATO, climate policy, trade, and the Iran nuclear deal. Despite political disagreements and periodic public friction, Macron has continued to describe Trump as a partner and “friend,” while also positioning himself as a defender of European interests in dealings with the United States.