The 47-year-old French president was forced to fact-check the 78-year-old Republican leader in real-time as he attempted to push the narrative that Ukraine had taken advantage of US support during its defense against Russia. Trump claimed it was time for the US to be reimbursed during a press conference in Washington.

Macron told reporters, “This war cost all of us a lot of money, and this is the responsibility of Russia because the aggressor is Russia.” Trump then interjected, asserting that all EU aid to Ukraine was in the form of loans. Macron quickly interrupted him, stating, “No. To be frank, we paid 60% of the total effort.”

Macron continued, clarifying that Europe had provided grants, loans, and real money, adding, “If at the end of the negotiation, they are ready to give it to us, super, it will loan at the end of the day, and we will have paid for that.” Trump sheepishly responded, “If you believe that, it’s OK with me,” but maintained his claim, saying, “But they get their money back and we don’t.”

Social media users reacted strongly to the exchange, with some expressing embarrassment at Trump’s correction. Comments ranged from calling the moment “embarrassing” for America to praising Macron for his leadership. One user noted, “Macron’s swift fact-check of Trump’s Ukraine claims was a masterclass in leadership,” emphasizing the contrast between real-time scrutiny and Trump’s bluster.