Donald Trump criticised for ‘disrespectful’ gesture to Queen Camilla during US state visit

King Charles and Queen Camilla have been in the US this week for a state visit, but President Donald Trump has already been criticised for a “disrespectful” gesture that broke royal protocol

King Charles and Queen Camilla have touched down in the US this week, but the President has already faced criticism for what’s been labelled a “disrespectful” gesture.

On Monday (April 27) clips began surfacing of the Royals’ arrival at the White House, where they were welcomed by President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. Yet when conversations commenced, observers were swift to highlight behaviour that many considered “disrespectful”, reports the Mirror US.

On X, the Office of the First Lady posted footage, with the caption: “President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcome King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the U.K. at the South Portico of the White House | Monday, April 27, 2026.” Sharp-eyed watchers were quick to notice details after Trump was reported to have delivered an “aggressive handshake”. This followed shortly after an unusual bulge was detected in Trump’s trousers – prompting a disturbing allegation.

Following the clip’s appearance on X, people were eager to voice their opinions. One swiftly posted an image of Trump placing his hand on Queen Camilla’s arm, commenting: “This is so disrespectful.”

While some deemed the gesture “fine” as they felt “the President was just being helpful”, others have highlighted how the President’s behaviour might be seen as contentious. Some also observed he placed his hand on King Charles’s arm as well.

Another commented: “I do not think you are supposed to touch a King or Queen but, of course, Trump loves breaking protocol.” A third person responded: “I noticed that too. Trump also touched Camilla.” Another added: “Forget etiquette – Donald has never heard of the word, nor has he heard of respect.”

For those not in the know, one should not initiate physical contact with a King or Queen. As per British Royal Protocol, the only permissible physical contact is a handshake, and only if they extend their hand first.

Any other forms of physical contact such as hugging, kissing or draping an arm around a Royal are discouraged, as they’re deemed inappropriate. While this isn’t legally binding, adhering to this tradition is always seen as courteous.

However, some individuals believed they extended a warm welcome to the Royals, and celebrated their arrival at the White House. One commented: “Thank you for such a warm welcome to Their Majesties!”

Another expressed: “I’m so proud of President and Mrs Donald J. Trump! I’m proud of how gracious and good willed you both are.”

Yet another claimed: “A historic, diplomatic moment. When leaders meet with mutual respect at the White House, it’s more than ceremony – it’s a reminder of the long-standing alliance and shared history between the two nations.”

This comes as King Charles III and Queen Camilla continue their US visit, marking the first British state visit to the country since Queen Elizabeth II’s trip in 2007. The journey aims to celebrate the robust relationship between the two nations.

This follows mounting concerns regarding the president’s unpredictable conduct – merely days earlier, Trump delivered a shocking sexual remark during a public appearance that left his audience speechless.