Donald Trump's awkward handshake with Xi Jinping draws scrutiny.
‘Hand Bruising Incoming’: Trump Draws Online Mockery Over Awkward Xi Jinping Handshake in China
President Donald Trump landed in Beijing on Wednesday, May 13, for a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People, with a video of their extended handshake drawing much attention online.
The leaders of the two superpowers are scheduled to address a number of issues during Trump's three-day stay in the country.
This marks Trump's first U.S. presidential visit to China since 2017.
However, it appears that the awkward handshake between the two is currently dominating the headlines as a video of the interaction has now gone viral on social media.
'He's Meeting a Power Equal and Seems to Realize It'
Donald Trump greeting Xi Jinping during his Beijing visit.
A video clip posted on X showed Trump greeting Xi outside the Great Hall of the People. As mentioned earlier, the clip is currently doing the rounds on social media.
Trump appeared to attempt his well-documented grip-and-pull handshake style; however, Xi held his hand in a firm clasp.
Their interaction has drawn considerable attention as Trump was seen repeatedly patting Xi's hand before the two posed for a picture together.
BBC News correspondent Stephen McDonnell analyzed the body language of both leaders. He said that Trump typically projects a dominant presence when he is seen with other world leaders.
"But when he's with Xi Jinping, he's meeting a power equal and seems to realize it," McDonnell stated.
McDonnell described the handshake as showing "Xi's hand on top, Trump's hand underneath, and the US President is giving him a little tap on the back of his hand, accompanied by a head tilt," claiming that the gesture appeared intended as a warm greeting.
He also noted that Trump responded enthusiastically to the formal welcome, offering a fist pump and a brief clap.
Internet Reacts to Donald Trump-Xi Jinping Interaction
Social media users discussed the handshake and the leaders' physical demeanors online.
Netizens shared their views and debated the power dynamics demonstrated during the exchange, scrutinizing Trump's physical movements during the arrival ceremony.
One user wrote, “Xi looks amused. He knew this was coming.” Another user stated, “Xi is about to get everything he wants today.”
An individual commented, “That is the walk of a man who is having to concentrate on walking way too much.”
“I wonder if purple bruises will show up on his hands from all that shaking?” asked one user.
One user joked, “Xi’s like: I can hook you up with a competent tailor while you’re here.”
“Hand bruising incoming,” added an individual. Another wrote, “Every step is a struggle.”
One noted, “Trump isn't looking active, I doubt that he might sleep in the meeting.”