The G7 summit in Évian concluded not only with high-stakes diplomatic discussions but also with a string of unscripted, lighthearted moments—many centered around former U.S. President Donald Trump. His candid remarks, spontaneous quips, and unexpected interactions added a distinctive flavor to the gathering of world leaders, sparking laughter and conversation on the sidelines of critical negotiations.
“I’m the boss.”
At the start of a working session with fellow G7 leaders, Trump bluntly declared, “I’m the boss,” prompting nervous chuckles before the meeting shifted to serious talks on international development aid—a topic that failed to garner unanimous support.
“What a handsome man…”
During a bilateral meeting with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Trump turned heads with an offhand comment about an Emirati journalist who had just asked him a question: “What a handsome man—is he from your country?” He continued, smiling, “He’s so beautiful. People back home are so mean. Look at this handsome guy—I could cast him in a movie right away.”
Later in the same meeting, as President Al Nahyan spoke softly, Trump joked, “You see, when you’re this rich, you have the financial freedom to speak this quietly. When you’re this wealthy, you’re so confident you don’t need to raise your voice. It’s amazing!”
“I’ve quit smoking.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni entered a morning summit session saying, “I need a coffee.” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz—well aware of her habits—teased, “And a cigarette…?”
“No, I’ve quit,” she replied. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen applauded: “Bravo!”
“A month ago,” Meloni added—though European Council President António Costa, when asked by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, clarified with a grin: “Twenty-one years ago… I never went back!”
Football, Paris Saint-Ger, and friendly banter
With the FIFA World Cup underway, football naturally surfaced in casual summit conversations. French President Emmanuel Macron, Donald Trump, and Qatar’s Emir exchanged light-hearted remarks about Paris Saint-Ger’s recent Champions League triumph. The Emir playfully teased Macron—a known supporter of Olympique de Marseille—saying, “Pretend you’re happy for them.”