Two guards collapse at Elysee Palace as Macron hosts Slovak president

Two members of France’s Republican Guard fainted durinwg President Emmanuel Macron’s reception for Slovak President Peter Pellegrini at the Elysee Palace, prompting immediate assistance from presidential aides.

Two members of France’s Republican Guard collapsed during a welcoming ceremony for Slovak President Peter Pellegrini at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Wednesday.

According to PUNCH, the guards fainted moments apart as French President Emmanuel Macron prepared to receive his visiting counterpart.

Footage showed one guard swaying before falling against a pillar, dropping his ceremonial sword. Macron and presidential aides immediately rushed to assist him.

A second guard reportedly collapsed off camera, briefly disrupting the reception.

A French presidential source confirmed that both personnel suffered “fainting attacks” but reassured the public about their condition.

“Both of them were swiftly taken care of and everything is fine,” the source said.

The Republican Guard, a unit of France’s gendarmerie, provides ceremonial protection and honours during state functions.

Its members frequently stand for extended periods in heavy uniforms while holding swords upright.

The incident occurred as Macron welcomed Pellegrini for an official visit, with both guards receiving prompt assistance from palace personnel.