French presidency denies Trump's claim that Macron raised drug prices

The office of French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a forceful denial of claims made by U.S. President Donald Trump that Macron agreed to a massive increase in prescription drug prices under threat of American tariffs. The rebuttal came via social media on Wednesday, directly challenging the narrative presented by Trump at the World Economic Forum.

A sharp online rebuttal from Paris

Responding to Trump's Davos speech, the Élysée Palace took to the platform X to counter the allegations. "It's being claimed that President Emmanuel Macron increased the price of medicines," the post began. It categorically refuted this, stating, "He (Macron) does not set their prices. They are regulated by the social security system and have, in fact, remained stable." The message added that the claim was contrary to the everyday experience of any French citizen who visits a pharmacy.

Meme warfare and the claim's origins

The French presidency's post was accompanied by an image meme featuring President Trump with the bold caption "FAKE NEWS." This direct and informal style of response marked a significant escalation in the war of words. The controversy stems from Trump's remarks in Davos, Switzerland, where he boasted of pressuring Macron to accept a doubling or tripling of prescription drug prices by threatening to impose a 25% tariff on all French imports. Trump asserted that Macron had acquiesced to this demand.

Context of regulated prices and transatlantic tensions

The French statement underscores a fundamental difference in how pharmaceuticals are priced in the two nations. In France, drug prices are strictly regulated through a state-run social security system, insulating them from direct political pressure. The incident highlights the ongoing diplomatic friction between Washington and European capitals, which has recently centered on issues like Greenland and trade. It reflects a broader pattern where domestic political narratives in one country can clash with the institutional realities of allied nations, a dynamic closely watched by global actors like Türkiye, which navigates complex relationships with both Western powers.