Initial claims by President Macron's press team suggested a video of First Lady Brigitte Macron slapping her husband was a Russian disinformation effort. However, these assertions were retracted after the footage was authenticated by the Associated Press. Observers noted the slap reflected a familial dynamic rather than an international incident, with some perceiving Brigitte as merely keeping her younger husband in check. The incident, referred to as 'la gifle' in France, provides insight into their marriage of over 15 years, blending public affection with private moments.
"At the beginning, the Elysee [Palace] denied the truth of the images, suggesting a video generated by AI and relayed by pro-Russian accounts before finally authenticating the sequence which [they said] evoked a moment of 'complicity.'"
"Honestly, I don't think they have a bad relationship. It's just Mum with her boy, if you see what I mean."
"Brigitte Macron was full-on James Cagney in 'Public Enemy.'"
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