Twin explosions occur near a hotel in Damascus where French President Emmanuel Macron stays during a landmark visit, injuring 18 people, multiple outlets report. The blasts take place after Macron’s motorcade leaves the hotel for the next stage of his trip. French and local accounts describe the incident as two bomb attacks near the property, prompting Syrian authorities to open an investigation. One report states that Macron remains unharmed and that his office says he has not been aware of the explosions. Despite the attack, Macron continues his visit as planned and meets Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. The visit is described as notable for being the first time an EU head of state goes to Syria since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Coverage from outlets also notes that the blasts overshadow the diplomatic engagement, but Macron’s meetings proceed. Details on responsibility for the explosions are not provided in the reports.