World leaders gathered in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, on Monday for a Gaza Peace Summit following a Trump-brokered ceasefire that ended two years of conflict and secured the release of all remaining Israeli hostages.
The summit focused on rebuilding Gaza and monitoring the ceasefire. However, US President
Donald Trump drew attention for his sometimes unusual, often theatrical interactions with leaders on stage. Trump’s personal style was on full display, swinging from compliments to awkward stage moments and tense handshakes.
Here’s a look at how some of the attending leaders experienced the “Trump treatment.”
You don't mind being called beautiful? Right Meloni?
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni received high praise from Trump, who focused on her political achievements and also her appearance. Trump told the audience, “We have a woman, a young woman who’s… I’m not allowed to say it because usually it’s the end of your political career if you say it: she’s a beautiful young woman!” Standing behind him, Meloni was then directly addressed: “Where is she? There she is! You don’t mind being called beautiful, right? Because you are.” Trump added that she was “incredible” and respected in Italy as a successful politician.
Was Starmer even allowed to speak?
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced an awkward moment when Trump invited him onto the stage, seemingly giving the impression he could speak, only to turn away moments later. As Starmer approached, Trump greeted him warmly, saying, “Is everything going good?” and complimenting his presence. But Trump quickly resumed his speech, leaving Starmer standing awkwardly to the side while other leaders looked on. Social media quickly mocked the episode. Despite the public humiliation, Starmer later praised Trump for his role in securing the Gaza ceasefire and stressed the UK’s role in monitoring the ceasefire and helping decommission Hamas weapons.
Sharif’s grovelling praise and flattery
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a far warmer reception, with Trump personally inviting him to speak during the summit. Trump asked, “Do you want to say something?” and Sharif delivered a five-minute speech lauding Trump’s efforts, calling him a “man of peace” and talking about his contributions to global stability. Sharif also noted Pakistan had nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in preventing escalations between India and Pakistan and for achieving a ceasefire in Gaza.
After Sharif's praise, Trump said, “Wow! I didn’t expect that. Let’s go home, there’s nothing more I have to say. Goodbye everybody. That was really beautiful and beautifully delivered, thank you very much.”
Another tense Handshake for Macron
Trump’s interaction with French President Emmanuel Macron turned into a tense on-stage moment during a handshake lasting nearly 30 seconds. Trump said, “Nice to see you, so you agreed?” to which Macron replied, “Is it genuine?” Trump added, “I am making peace,” while tightening his grip. Macron appeared to push back, saying, “Excuse me,” and suggested, “Let's handle this behind closed doors.”
Professional lip reader Nicola Hickling noted that the exchange was a mix of subtle warnings, accusations, and a show of dominance. She said, “Repeatedly prolonged, tight handgrips between these two have a clear history as theatrical diplomacy. The squeeze here reads as an attempt to dominate the interaction physically while delivering a conciliatory line.” Macron tried to de-escalate by tapping Trump’s hand, looking down, and turning away.
Subianto's hot mic moment
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto had an informal and unexpected exchange with Trump when he asked if he could meet his son, Eric Trump, during the summit. Speaking behind a podium with a live microphone, Prabowo said a region was “not safe, security-wise” before asking, “Can I meet Eric?” Trump responded immediately, “I’ll have Eric call. Should I do that? He’s such a good boy. I’ll have Eric call.”
Prabowo then mentioned “Hary” and suggested, “We’ll look for a better place,” prompting Trump to repeat that Eric would call. Prabowo clarified, “Eric or Don Jr.,” to which Trump confirmed Eric. Eric and Donald Trump Jr. both serve as executive vice presidents of the Trump Organization, which has business interests in real estate, hospitality, and blockchain ventures. The reference to “Hary” likely referred to Hary Tanoesoedibjo, founder of the MNC Group and a long-time Trump business partner who attended Trump’s inauguration earlier this year.