A Memorial Day tribute posted by former US President Donald Trump has captured widespread attention, not for its patriotic sentiment, but for a strikingly awkward moment it featured.
The video, shared on Trump's Truth Social platform, showed the ex-President flanked by two of his most prominent supporters: Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The trio is seen standing solemnly before the clip culminates in a brief, rigid handshake exchange between Trump and the two men.
Social media users and news outlets were quick to seize on the encounter, with many describing the handshake as 'stiff', 'robotic', and 'painfully awkward'. The moment swiftly became fodder for online memes and commentary, diverting focus from the intended Memorial Day message.
The meeting, reportedly orchestrated by Charlie Kirk, underscores Trump's continued courtship of major donors and influential figures within the tech and conservative spheres as he campaigns for a return to the White House. Elon Musk's political allegiances have shifted notably towards the right and the Republican party in recent years, making his association with Trump a significant point of interest.
While the purpose of the gathering was a show of respect for US military personnel who died in service, the internet's reaction has centred almost entirely on the brief, viral-ready interaction, demonstrating how every public gesture in a heated election cycle is subject to intense scrutiny and often, mockery.
