Donald Trump was seen giving his wife Melania a cheeky squeeze during King Charles III's state visit to the US, sparking a flurry of reactions online. The awkward gesture occurred just moments after the US president shook hands with the King during the official visit in Washington DC this week.
The exchange took place after the world leaders exchanged greetings during a livestreamed event. Trump's hand drifted to his wife's back before sliding downwards, cupping her rear before he seemingly realised what he had done. A short clip showed the president quickly snapping his hand back and patting Melania on the back near her waistline. He then removed his hand and went for another handshake with the King, but the brief moment did not go unnoticed.
Social media users were quick to comment. One X user said: "Trump gives first lady Melania a playful tap on the tush during meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla." Another added: "Melania looked so good today that Trump is willing to risk it all for a tushy tap." A third proudly proclaimed "America is back" after noticing the gesture, which occurred as the trio walked towards the Washington Monument.
This incident follows another controversial moment earlier in the day, when neither Trump nor Melania bowed or curtsied to the royals, leading some to conclude they had broken protocol. However, the Royal Family's official site states: "There are no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting a member of the Royal Family, but many people wish to observe the traditional forms." The King and Queen are known not to strictly follow protocol, and both the President and First Lady are heads of state, which may have influenced their decision.
This is not the first time Trump has faced criticism over his conduct with British royalty. Eight years earlier, during a previous state visit to the UK, he walked in front of Queen Elizabeth II, which was deemed a breach of protocol. Nonetheless, the latest gesture has once again stirred debate on social media about appropriate behaviour during royal meetings.
