FridayOL

Hanoi, Vietnam - French President Emmanuel Macron has firmly denied reports of a disagreement with his wife, Brigitte, dismissing a viral video showing her seemingly pushing him away as a product of disinformation. The incident occurred upon their arrival in Hanoi for a state visit, sparking widespread speculation and social media buzz.

The video, which quickly gained traction online, depicted Brigitte Macron gently moving her husband's face as they disembarked from the aircraft. This seemingly innocuous gesture was immediately interpreted by some as a sign of marital tension, fueling rumors of a rift within the French presidential couple.

Addressing the controversy during a press conference in Hanoi, President Macron stated, “It was just a joke. There’s a campaign of disinformation targeting my wife and me.” He emphasized the importance of discerning truth from fabricated narratives, particularly in the age of social media.

This isn’t the first time the Macron couple has faced scrutiny and online speculation. Their relationship, which began when Macron, then a teenager, was a student at a private school where Brigitte was a teacher, has often been a subject of public fascination and, at times, criticism. The couple has consistently maintained a united front, and President Macron’s latest remarks are a clear attempt to shut down further rumors.

The President's response highlights a broader issue of the increasing prevalence of disinformation and its impact on public perception, especially concerning prominent figures. Experts have warned about the ease with which manipulated videos and false narratives can spread online, potentially damaging reputations and influencing public opinion.

Brigitte Macron, known for her elegant style and active role in supporting her husband's initiatives, has also been a target of online harassment and baseless claims. The French government has been increasingly vocal about combating such behavior and promoting media literacy to help citizens critically evaluate online content.

During their visit to Vietnam, the Macrons are focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between France and Vietnam. President Macron is expected to discuss trade, investment, and cooperation on issues such as climate change and sustainable development. The controversy surrounding the viral video, while unwelcome, has not appeared to derail the official agenda.

The President’s strong denial, coupled with his attribution of the incident to a deliberate disinformation campaign, signals a determination to protect his family’s privacy and to counter the spread of false information. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures in navigating the complexities of the digital age.