French President Emmanuel Macron’s first UK state visit in 17 years began with grandeur at Windsor, but it quickly stirred viral drama. While King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed him with royal honors, the internet buzzed over unexpected protocol moments. A video of Macron kissing Princess Kate’s hand, a rare move in modern royal circles, sparked confusion and criticism online. Though not against any official rules, the gesture was seen as unusually intimate. Adding fuel, Macron was later seen walking ahead of King Charles during the procession, triggering more backlash. And earlier, his wife Brigitte appeared to brush off his extended hand while deplaning. As the visit concludes with a summit alongside PM Keir Starmer, social media continues to dissect the gestures that may have outshone the diplomacy.
