Police stop two topless female rights activists from approaching Trump's motorcade in Paris

Femen had 'fake peacemakers' and 'hypocrisy' painted on their bodies

A pair of topless protesters who ran at the motorcade carrying Donald Trump to Paris' Armistice Day ceremony, have been apprehended by French police.

As the US president’s vehicle made its way down the Champs-Elysees, the women managed to vault the barricades and run towards the procession.

One of the activists got to within metres of the presidential motorcade, while the other was quickly hauled away by security services.

Their bodies were painted with the words “fake peacemakers” and “hypocrisy”.

Paris police said they detained two people over the incident, which is likely to raise questions about security at this major international event.

The motorcade paused briefly following the interruption before continuing to the Arc de Triomphe, the location of the commemoration service.

More than 70 heads of state from around the world were gathered for the centenary of the armistice that ended the First World War.

Most of the other world leaders leaders travelled together from the Elysee Palace, while Mr Trump arrived on his own.

The women were identified as members of the radical feminist group Femen, which has become known internationally for organising topless protests against sexism, homophobia and religious institutions.

They are known for repeatedly breaching security at major events around the world.

Femen leader Inna Shevchenko claimed responsibility for the protest on Twitter, writing: “FEMEN activists 'welcomed' the cortege of @realDonaldTrump twice on his way to Arc de Triumph”.

The group also staged a protest in front of the Arc de Triomphe itself on Saturday.

Three activists held placards in front of the iconic structure to denounce the “war criminals” among the guests at the event. They were dragged into police vans when they refused to move along.

Mr Trump's presence has already caused some controversy in France after he called French president Emmanuel Macron "very insulting" for suggesting the creation of an EU army to defend against outside threats, including China, Russia and the US.

The two leaders gave a show of friendship when they met on Saturday, however, suggesting they were both eager to work together on military matters.