The next moment came during the greetings. Cameras captured Trump shaking hands with Kate Middleton, with many viewers struck by the length and firmness of the exchange. Some accused him of pulling the Princess of Wales slightly towards him.
One social media user joked: “Did he pull the princess into that handshake? LoL! Let’s take Britain. They need our help. Might as well be the 51st instead of Canada.” Another remarked: “Poor Princess Catherine. Her distance says it all. Looks like he’s gripping her hand rather tight.”
Royal etiquette experts had warned this might happen. Grant Harrold, King Charles’s former butler, explained before the visit: “The member of the Royal Family should instigate the handshake. But I can guarantee that won’t happen with Trump, as we know he loves a handshake. It’s just one-handed—don’t grab them or pull them in for a bear hug.”
Walking Ahead of the King
🚨 NOW: President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have been greeted by Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales
pic.twitter.com/omQ1XS7LYR— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) September 17, 2025
Perhaps the most controversial moment came after the carriage ride. As the group made their way through the gardens to the central residence, Trump appeared to stride a few steps ahead of King Charles while speaking with a guard. Royal observers winced, pointing out that walking in front of the monarch is generally considered a breach of protocol.
Still, some reports suggested this may not have been a mistake at all, but rather a tradition that allows visiting world leaders to walk ahead of the sovereign during certain ceremonial inspections.
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