Donald Trump's Beijing trip has sparked fresh concern online after close up images of his bruised and discoloured hands went viral on Wednesday, renewing questions about the 79 year old president's physical condition.
The reaction began after photographs fromTrump's state visit to Chinacirculated on social media and in US media reports. He was in Beijing for high level talks with Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People, but attention quickly shifted from diplomacy to the appearance of his hands and the wider debate over his health.
In the widely shared images, Trump is seen shaking hands with Xi and placing his right hand on the back of a Chinese official. The marks on his hand were visible enough to prompt immediate reaction online.
Journalist Aaron Rupar drew attention to the images inposts on X, writing that Trump's hand looked 'pretty gnarly' after he landed in China. In another post, he pointed viewers to what he described as visible discolouration as Trump greeted Xi and posed for photographs.
Trump's hand was looking pretty gnarly after he landed in China(Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty)pic.twitter.com/89SyQjgzDW
The reaction tapped into an argument that has followed Trump through other recent public appearances. Close up images from the China visit and earlier White House events have repeatedly prompted claims thatheavy make up or concealer had been used on his hands.
OK! Magazinereported that Trump has acknowledged using concealer to cover dark marks or bruising. The suggestion is that the product can rub off during handshakes, leaving cameras to capture uneven patches over marked skin. Without a medical explanation released on the record, however, the cause and seriousness of the bruising remain unclear.
Trump's hands were not the only focus of attention in Beijing. Some online commentators also pointed to his walk and posture, claiming he appeared stiff and unsteady during parts of the visit.
One X user wrote that Trump appeared to use a vehicle for balance as he turned a corner, while others bluntly questioned whether he looked well. Critics also challenged the White House's earlier suggestion that bruising on the president's hands could be linked to frequent handshakes, arguing that the marks appeared visible before he greeted officials in China.
Trump and President Xi greet each other and pose for pictures. Note that Trump's hand is visibly discolored.pic.twitter.com/A0dRouonoq
Source: International Business Times UK
