During King Charles III’s state visit to the US, President Donald Trump was captured in an awkward moment with his wife, Melania. The incident occurred after the world leaders exchanged greetings during the significant Washington DC state visit, where Trump and King Charles were seen shaking hands on a livestream earlier in the day.
Following the greeting captured on the livestream, Trump’s hand moved to Melania’s back before sliding downward to briefly cup her rear. Photographers documenting the event captured the moment before the President quickly withdrew his hand, patting Melania on the back around her waistline before proceeding to shake hands with the King, although the gesture did not go unnoticed.
Several individuals took to social media to comment on the incident. One user noted, “Trump gives first lady Melania a playful tap on the tush during a meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla.” Another user remarked, “Melania looked so good today that Trump is willing to risk it all for a tushy tap.” A third individual proudly declared, “America is back,” observing the interaction as the trio walked towards the Washington Monument, following another controversial move by Trump.
Criticism arose as neither Trump nor Melania bowed or curtsied to the royals during their greeting in Washington DC, leading to suggestions that they had breached protocol. The decision not to adhere to traditional greetings was seen as disrespectful, prompting critical comments on social media.
An onlooker expressed surprise, stating, “Trump did not bow to King Charles. Protocol shattered. The answer is written in plain sight who walks ahead, inspects the guard, and takes the place of honor? That is the king.” Another commenter added, “Oh god… he’s walking in front of the King, like Charles doesn’t even exist or matter!” These reactions echoed similar sentiments from eight years earlier when Trump walked in front of Queen Elizabeth II during a previous state visit to the UK, which was also considered a breach of protocol.
However, it is worth noting that the King and Queen do not strictly adhere to protocol, and both the President and First Lady are heads of state. The Royal Family’s official site emphasizes that while there are no obligatory codes of behavior when meeting a member of the Royal Family, many individuals opt to observe traditional customs.
