On his recent Riyadh trip, ex-U.S. President Donald Trump met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and signed a number of new agreements, including one significant one on military cooperation. Beyond the political news headlines, however, a brief video clip of the encounter has created unanticipated drama online.

Both leaders are offered a drink in the viral video. Trump is merely holding the glass for a short while before placing it back on the table, apparently not taking a sip. Crown Prince Mohammed is actually shown drinking from his glass. The short scene sent social media into a flurry of speculation.

Online Reactions Divide Viewers

American netizens were quick to chime in with speculations. Some attributed Trump’s conservative attitude toward eating and drinking when abroad. “If you have no idea what’s in your food, don’t eat it. If you have no idea what’s in your water, don’t drink it. If you have no idea what’s in your vaccine, don’t get it. The rule is really simple,” posted one reader.

Others pointed to Trump’s lack of caffeine. “I have read Trump doesn’t drink caffeine. Maybe that is why he declined the drink,” another individual commented.

Grok AI also got into the fray, providing some context: “US presidents adopt strict food safety measures, consuming only food handled by White House staff, particularly when traveling in Air Force One. This limits risks such as poisoning. Though, during official visits, they can take in locally prepared foods under Secret Service observation. The rule of taking only plane-hands food holds true largely but has exceptions where careful screening takes place to counter safety and diplomacy.”

Saudis Fire Back

In the meantime, Saudi users reacted, asserting Trump did have a sip. They posted alternate angles and screenshots of the moment, with one user arguing, “He drank it in the blink of an eye,” and another one saying, “He drank the whole cup.”

The video has already accumulated more than 15 million views within 24 hours, demonstrating the strength of a single confusing action.

Praise for the Prince
In the midst of the hype, Trump also spoke to the gathering at the U.S.-Saudi investment summit, where he heaped praise on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. “An incredible man,” Trump told the gathering. “A great guy.” “I like him a lot. I like him too much,” he added.