Media: Macron aims to lure Trump to G7 via Versailles invite

French President Emmanuel Macron has invited U.S. President Donald Trump to a formal dinner at the Palace of Versailles following the upcoming G7 Summit in June, according to sources, though it remains unclear whether Trump will attend either gathering.

France is set to host this year’s G7 leaders’ summit in the Alpine resort of Evian-les-Bains between June 15–17, Caliber.Az reports via Reuters.

The schedule was adjusted by Macron to accommodate a mixed martial arts event Trump is hosting at the White House on his 80th birthday on June 14, the sources said.

Trump’s attendance at the summit is uncertain, with officials warning his absence would be a significant setback for Macron and could overshadow the meeting. Relations between the United States and several G7 partners have become increasingly strained amid disputes over the war in Iran and wider NATO policy.

A senior White House official confirmed the invitation, saying, "(Macron) really wants him (Trump) to go, begging him to go." The official added that Trump has not yet decided whether he will attend the G7.

Macron’s office declined to comment on the Versailles invitation. A French official familiar with planning said discussions remain preliminary.

"The format of this reception is not finalised. The visit remains to be confirmed," the official said.

The proposed Versailles dinner is seen by French officials as an effort to underline Franco-American ties ahead of U.S. independence anniversary celebrations in July.