Washington DC

US President Donald Trump has suggested imposing steep tariffs of up to 200 per cent on French wine and champagne following reports that French President Emmanuel Macron declined to participate in Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace,” according to EuroNews.

Responding to a reporter’s question about Macron’s reported refusal to join the initiative, Trump remarked that the French leader’s influence was waning, claiming he would soon be out of office. Trump then said that imposing heavy tariffs on French wine and champagne could prompt Macron to reconsider, although he added that participation was not mandatory.

Macron’s current presidential term runs until May 2027, and under French law, he is ineligible to seek a third consecutive term.

The “Board of Peace” was first outlined by Trump in September last year as part of his efforts to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza. The initiative has since evolved into a broader proposal aimed at addressing and mediating global disputes.

Meanwhile, Macron has extended an invitation to Trump for a G7 meeting following the World Economic Forum, according to screenshots of messages shared by the US President on his Truth Social platform.

In his message, Macron said that France and the United States shared common ground on Syria and could work closely on Iran. However, he expressed confusion over Trump’s stance on Greenland. Macron also proposed hosting a G7 meeting in Paris after Davos, suggesting participation by representatives from Ukraine, Denmark, Syria and Russia on the sidelines, along with a dinner engagement in Paris.

ALSO READ: India, UAE signs deals to deepen partnership during MBZ's short Delhi visit

The screenshots shared did not show whether Trump had responded to Macron’s message.