Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Trump Faces Criticism for Saluting Saudi Generals During Riyadh Visit

The president's gesture, during high-stakes US-Saudi negotiations, has reignited debates over presidential protocol and ethical dimensions of the relationship.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (not pictured) interact with officials during a “coffee ceremony” at the Saudi Royal Court on May 13, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Image

Overview

  • President Trump returned salutes to Saudi generals during a welcome ceremony in Riyadh, standing alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
  • Critics on social media and political opponents denounced the act, calling it a breach of presidential protocol and a national embarrassment.
  • The gesture drew comparisons to Trump's controversial 2018 salute to a North Korean general, which also sparked debate over military etiquette for US presidents.
  • Commentary has linked the salutes to broader ethical concerns, including the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which US intelligence tied to the Saudi Crown Prince.
  • The incident coincides with ongoing negotiations for major US-Saudi defense and investment agreements, potentially exceeding $1 trillion in value.