Donald Trump Sparks Controversy with Princess of Wales Handshake During UK State Visit
Donald Trump’s second state visit to the United Kingdom was expected to be a ceremonial display of diplomacy and tradition. Instead, it quickly turned into a viral moment of discomfort—and royal protocol missteps—that left many questioning whether the former U.S. president was simply unaware of centuries-old customs or purposefully flouting them.
The spotlight focused squarely on Trump’s initial meeting with the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. As cameras captured their handshake, viewers noticed something unusual: rather than a standard greeting, Trump appeared to pull the princess slightly toward him, gripping her hand firmly in a gesture that many described as awkward or inappropriate.
The brief interaction quickly ignited a storm of online commentary. Social media users expressed sympathy for the princess, with one tweet reading, “Poor Princess Catherine — the way she pulls back says it all. His handshake was way too forceful.” Another sarcastically joked, “Did he just drag the princess closer? Typical Trump! Next thing you know, he’ll be claiming the UK as America’s 51st state.”
Royal etiquette experts weighed in as well, confirming that Trump’s infamous strong handshake clashes sharply with the subtlety expected at royal engagements. Former royal butler Grant Harrold explained, “In royal protocol, the member of the royal family traditionally extends their hand first, and the handshake itself should be light and respectful, lasting just a couple of seconds. It’s not meant to be a power move. Frankly, I wasn’t surprised Trump ignored this.”
But the handshake was only the beginning. Shortly after, Trump was filmed walking several steps ahead of King Charles III during the official procession through Windsor Castle grounds—a breach of decorum that stirred fresh outrage. Walking ahead of the monarch is seen as a breach of respect and harkened back to a similar incident during Trump’s 2019 visit when he walked ahead of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Observers noted the symbolic weight of these gestures. One critic on Twitter remarked, “Trump leading the British army and walking in front of King Charles is a clear sign of disrespect.” Another user quipped, “Trump leads, Charles follows. Some things never change.”
🚨 NOW: President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have been greeted by Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) September 17, 2025
pic.twitter.com/omQ1XS7LYR
Despite the backlash, some defenders argue that Trump’s behavior stems from habit rather than intentional disrespect. Others suspect it’s part of his longstanding pattern of asserting dominance in high-profile situations.
🔹 Conclusion
Donald Trump’s recent UK visit has once again ignited debate about his relationship with tradition and protocol. From a handshake that appeared to be a forceful power play to walking ahead of King Charles, his actions flouted royal customs and raised questions about whether these breaches were accidental or deliberate. Whatever the intention, one fact remains indisputable: when Trump meets the royals, royal protocol is rarely left intact.