Well, folks, it looks like President-elect Donald Trump is gearing up for his first overseas trip since reclaiming the political stage, and it’s a big one: the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Trump’s announcement on Truth Social came with characteristic flair, praising French President Emmanuel Macron’s leadership in restoring the iconic cathedral after the devastating 2019 fire. “It will be a very special day for all!” Trump declared.

This marks the start of Trump’s post-election reentry onto the global stage, where he’s been making moves to rebuild international relationships—or at least his version of them. Over the weekend, Trump hosted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago, signaling a return to his unconventional, personality-driven diplomacy.

His upcoming trip to Paris, arranged after discussions between Trump’s and Macron’s teams, seems set to solidify his intent to reassert America’s prominence in world affairs.

For all their political differences, Macron and Trump have long shared a curious rapport. Back in 2019, Macron made headlines for his ambitious promise to restore Notre Dame within five years—a goal many considered overly optimistic. Yet here we are, with the French president ready to showcase the cathedral’s revival and host a who’s-who of global leaders. And who’s at the top of the guest list? None other than Donald Trump, whose praise for Macron has been consistent, even during politically tumultuous times.

Macron’s congratulatory note following Trump’s election victory in November—“Ready to work together…with respect and ambition”—was among the first sent by a foreign leader. It’s a nod to their previous partnership and a possible indication that Macron sees value in keeping the lines of communication open as Trump prepares to return to the White House.

While Trump’s attendance at the Notre Dame reopening grabs headlines, another nugget of news has raised eyebrows: his appointment of Charles Kushner, Jared Kushner’s father, as ambassador to France.

Like his choice of billionaire Warren Stephens as ambassador to the United Kingdom, this appointment reinforces Trump’s penchant for filling high-profile diplomatic roles with trusted allies and donors, rather than career diplomats. It’s a continuation of a trend that defined his first term and one that critics argue prioritizes personal loyalty over professional qualifications.

Notably absent from the Notre Dame ceremony will be outgoing President Joe Biden, who is currently on his first—and likely last—trip to Africa as president. Biden’s focus on Angola contrasts sharply with Trump’s media-savvy and symbolic choice of Paris. While Biden seeks to leave his mark on African relations, Trump is clearly positioning himself as a leader ready to reengage with Europe on his own terms.

The reopening of Notre Dame is more than a celebration of cultural and historical restoration—it’s a global spectacle. For Trump, it’s an opportunity to project influence, rebuild his international image, and remind the world of his unique brand of diplomacy. With dozens of heads of state expected to attend, the event provides a perfect stage for the president-elect to send a message: Trump is back, and he’s ready to play on the world stage once again.