A tree planted last year by President Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron to symbolize a century of French and American friendship has died.
In April 2018, the two leaders shoveled dirt on the sapling during a ceremony on the White House South Lawn as their wives looked on.
“This oak tree … will be a reminder at the White House of these ties that bind us,” Macron tweeted at the time.
100 years ago, American soldiers fought in France, in Belleau to defend our freedom. This oak tree (my gift to @realDonaldTrump) will be a reminder at the White House of these ties that bind us. pic.twitter.com/AUdVncaKRN
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 24, 2018
The tree, harvested from Belleau Wood, one of the bloodiest battles in World War I for American forces, disappeared from the White House lawn shortly after it was planted.
Gerard Araud, then-French ambassador to the U.S., said the tree had been quarantined, “which is mandatory for any living organism imported into the US.” He said the tree would later be replanted.
It is in quarantine which is mandatory for any living organism imported to the US. It will be replanted afterwards. https://t.co/XyJRKTgPWW
— Gérard Araud (@GerardAraud) April 29, 2018
But the tree has since died in quarantine, according to French media reports.
The relationship between Trump and Macron has also seen better times. The two leaders disagree over a range of issues, including Iran and commitments to international security.
