In an extraordinary diplomatic encounter that has raised eyebrows across international circles, former US President Donald Trump sprayed his Syrian counterpart with expensive cologne before inquiring about his marital status during a White House meeting.
Unprecedented White House Meeting
The incident occurred on November 11 during what marked Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's first official visit to the White House since Syria gained independence in 1946. The historic meeting took an unexpected turn when Trump produced his personal fragrance and proceeded to spray the visiting leader.
According to sources familiar with the encounter, Trump used his own $249 cologne during the unusual exchange, telling President al-Sharaa, "This is men's fragrance" as he administered the scent. The Syrian leader, described as a former Al Qaeda militant, appeared to take the unconventional diplomatic approach in stride.
Personal Questions Follow Fragrance Exchange
The situation became even more unconventional when Trump then turned his attention to President al-Sharaa's personal life, directly questioning him about the number of wives he maintained. When the Syrian leader confirmed he had only one wife, Trump responded with a joke that highlighted cultural stereotypes.
"With you guys, I never know!" Trump reportedly remarked, creating what observers have described as an awkward moment in what should have been a carefully orchestrated diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
Diplomatic Protocol Questions Raised
The unusual exchange has prompted discussions among diplomatic experts about appropriate protocol during high-level international meetings. The incident represents another example of Trump's unconventional approach to foreign diplomacy during his presidency.
Neither administration has officially commented on whether the fragrance spraying and personal questioning affected the substantive discussions that were scheduled to take place during the landmark meeting between the two leaders.
The encounter continues to generate discussion about the boundaries of diplomatic decorum and the potential impact of such personal interactions on international relations between nations with complex political relationships.
