Michelle Obama is reportedly considering a solo move to Europe in what sources describe as a personal journey to reclaim independence and fulfillment-days after publicly addressing persistent rumors of marital trouble with former President Barack Obama.
The former First Lady, 60, recently appeared on the Work in Progress podcast with Sophia Bush, where she spoke candidly about public speculation surrounding her marriage. "That's the thing that we as women struggle with - disappointing people," Michelle said. "So much so that this year people couldn't even fathom that I was making a choice for myself. That they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing."
She added: "This couldn't be a grown woman just making a set of decisions herself, right? But that's what society does to us."
Multiple outlets, including The U.S. Sun, cited unnamed sources close to Michelle who said she is seriously considering spending time abroad without Barack. "She has a dream that she has been having since she was a teenager about living out of America for a bit," one source said. "To enjoy espresso at a terrace, eat some pastries, walking down the streets like a normal person and not get any attention."
Mediterranean countries such as Italy, Greece, and Spain are reportedly under consideration, as Michelle seeks a break from political pressures and media attention. "I don't know if Barack would join her or not, but she really would love to live this kind of experience as soon as possible," the source added.
Michelle, who has largely stayed out of the political spotlight since her tenure in the White House, emphasized a shift in priorities now that her daughters are grown and her official duties are behind her. "Now, you know, I can't blame my decisions and indecisions on anyone other than me," she said on the podcast. "I think if I'm honest with myself, I could have made a lot of these decisions years ago. But I didn't give myself that freedom."
The Obamas, married for more than 30 years, have faced periodic rumors of marital strain, including recent speculation fueled by Michelle's absence from events such as Jimmy Carter's January funeral and Donald Trump's inauguration.
In a March 18 Instagram post, Barack publicly supported Michelle's latest project-her podcast IMO with brother Craig Robinson-writing: "So proud of Michelle and Craig on their new podcast... You can't truly understand Michelle without understanding her family."
Despite mounting curiosity about her personal life, Michelle continues to advocate for personal clarity and digital boundaries. "Don't let that negative energy enter into your space," she said during a recent IMO episode. "These are people who don't know you. A lot of this stuff is made up, and it does not feed you."
According to In Touch, sources close to the Obamas say the couple remains committed. "They'll always have each other's back," one insider said. "They're confident in their relationship and don't care what anyone thinks."
