In an unexpected turn of events, former U.S. President Donald Trump recently provided marriage advice to French President Emmanuel Macron following a viral incident involving Macron and his wife, Brigitte. The incident, which took place during their arrival in Vietnam for a Southeast Asian tour, showed Macron being playfully smacked in the face by Brigitte, his wife and former teacher. The video capturing this moment has since gained immense traction online, prompting discussions and reactions from various corners of the media.

The footage in question shows Macron appearing stern as he faces Brigitte, who suddenly raises her arms and gently strikes him on the face before they disembark from the presidential aircraft. The clip, which many interpreted as an awkward moment between the couple, sparked widespread speculation regarding the couple's relationship. In light of the viral nature of the video, Fox News correspondent Deter Doocy took the opportunity to ask Trump during a press conference: “Do you have any world leader-to-world leader marital advice?”

Trump, known for his blunt and often humorous remarks, replied with a smirk, advising, “Make sure the door remains closed.” His lighthearted comment elicited laughter from those in attendance, including guests at a farewell press conference organized for Elon Musk, who had recently departed from the White House. Trump, who has experienced marriage three times, continued his jest and addressed Macron directly, stating, “That was not good. I spoke to him. He’s fine. They're fine. They're two really good people.”

The bizarre incident also caught the attention of Musk, who cheekily noted his own black eye during the conference, attributing it to some roughhousing with his son, indicating the humorous undertones of the moment. Musk humorously detailed the source of his injury, saying, “I was just horsing around with Little X. I said go ahead, punch me in the face. And he did. Turns out even a five-year-old punching you in the face can leave a mark.”

As the couple stepped off the plane, Macron was seen waving to the throng of cameras present, though Brigitte’s unexpected slap raised eyebrows. Macron later attempted to downplay the incident, dismissing claims of a heated argument and asserting that it was merely playful banter between them. The couple then appeared to maintain a united front as they walked down the staircase together, with Macron extending his arm to Brigitte, who instead opted to hold onto the handrail for support.

This viral clip quickly garnered a multitude of views and interpretations, leading social media users and analysts to dissect the couple’s interaction. Body language expert Judi James commented on the incident, expressing concern that the couple's attempts to explain the slap as a lighthearted exchange seemed less convincing. James observed, “Her hand comes out and presses against his face, and if anybody wants to try this on themselves, you’ll feel how vulnerable it makes you feel.” She noted that Macron’s surprised expression and clenched fists could indicate underlying tension.

Despite the controversy, Macron and Brigitte emerged as a couple ready to face the media, with Macron giving a thumbs up to journalists as they descended the staircase. However, this incident is only the latest in a series of moments that have raised questions about their relationship. Macron and Brigitte’s marriage has long attracted scrutiny, particularly given their age difference; Macron met Brigitte when he was just 15 years old and she was 39, a dynamic that has often been the subject of public curiosity.

As the pair continue their tour in Southeast Asia, observers remain intrigued by what their relationship dynamics reveal about public figures navigating personal and professional lives amidst constant media scrutiny.