‘Why is Trump wearing gloves?’ POTUS's unusual outfit choice at Xi Jinping welcome draws attention

Trump greeted Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews in winter coat and black gloves despite mild weather. Social media speculated about his unusual outfit choice.

Updated on: Sep 24, 2026, 05:25:50 IST

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Donald Trump turned up at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Wednesday afternoon to welcome Xi Jinping, the President of China. Xi, accompanied by his wife, Peng Liyuan, is on a three-day state visit to the United States.

As Donald and Melania Trump greeted their Chinese counterpart, followed by an arrival ceremony, many noticed something unusual about Trump. The 80-year-old showed up wearing black gloves, coupled with a complete winter outfit that, many thought, does not go with the weather in Maryland.

The gloves, especially, drew attention has President Trump has been suffering from bruises on his hands. He has explained that they occur because of a high dose of aspirin that the 80-year-old has to take daily. Thus, some speculated that Trump might be wearing gloves to cover the bruising on his hands.

'Why Is Trump Wearing Gloves': Social Media Erupts

Thousands of people watching the live broadcast of the arrival ceremony at Joint Base Andrews took notice of the gloves. Needless to say, most found it "unusual," given the weather in Maryland.

“Trump is dressed like he's going ice fishing, with a winter coat and gloves, and it's in the mid-60's in DC,” wrote one.

“So, why did President Trump wear gloves as he greeted Xi on the tarmac? I was like… hummm is he worried about a poison being passed via handshakes? Or is he just letting his germaphobe leanings out for a romp?” wrote another.

“Is Trump sick? He is wearing a topcoat and gloves in 60-degree weather. Looks very weak in comparison to the Chinese leader,” said one.

“Why is Trump in a full coat and gloves? Xi has neither. He's very ill,” said one.

“Trump is the only one wearing gloves. It makes him look weak. It’s 64° there for Christ sake,” added one.

This story is being updated.

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