An awkward diplomatic moment unfolded on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, during French President Emmanuel Macron’s arrival at the Turkish Presidential Complex in Ankara — part of the NATO summit activities. Wearing his signature Ray-Ban glasses, Macron — who has publicly acknowledged vision issues — shook hands with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan before turning to greet the president’s wife, Emine Erdoğan.
Macron appeared to attempt a formal hand-kiss, a gesture occasionally observed in certain diplomatic or ceremonial contexts. However, Emine Erdoğan gently but firmly withdrew her hand, preventing the gesture from being completed. The brief exchange was captured by cameras and quickly circulated online.
Macron responded with an uneasy smile, while President Erdoğan stood nearby, expressionless and unresponsive. The clip rapidly went viral, with many viewers interpreting the moment as an unusually tense and uncomfortable episode during the official welcome ceremony.