The demonstrations that erupted in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille over the past week were sparked by a surge in food and fuel prices, escalating into clashes that left 38 people injured and several police officers arrested.
During a press briefing, Trump reiterated his stance, saying, "What's happening in France has to do with immigration, not schools, or anything else," and went on to describe a private conversation with Macron in which he warned that the country was "making a big mistake" by allowing uncontrolled entry.
Macron has repeatedly insisted that France's policy is based on legal immigration and European solidarity, stating that the protests are a sign of frustration over economic inequality rather than a threat of cultural change.
European officials have urged a coordinated response, with the European Commission warning that unilateral border tightening could derail EU cohesion and spark further unrest.
In the city of Marseille, 14‑year‑old Malik, whose family has lived there for three generations, told reporters that he feels "divided" between his heritage and the fear that his neighbourhood might be swept away by outsiders.
Trump's comments come ahead of a scheduled EU summit on migration next week, where member states will debate new enforcement measures.