U.S. President Donald Trump’s second state visit to Britain began on Wednesday with a historic stop at Windsor Castle, where his informal greeting of Princess Catherine caught the attention of observers, CBC News reports.
After stepping out of his helicopter, Trump greeted Prince William with a handshake and salute, then shook Catherine’s hand, telling her, “You’re beautiful. So beautiful.” Catherine’s reaction appeared neutral as she proceeded to shake First Lady Melania Trump’s hand, and the group walked together toward King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
While there is no official requirement for visitors to bow or curtsy when meeting members of the Royal Family, experts note that Trump’s comment transgressed unofficial norms of diplomacy. Justin Vovk, a royal historian with the Institute for the Study of the Crown in Canada, told CBC News, “It would, in my opinion, sort of transgress the unofficial rules of personal diplomacy.”
Trump later referenced Catherine’s appearance again during a formal state banquet, describing her as “so radiant, and so healthy, and so beautiful” while seated beside her. Royal observers say that while the president has a history of making similar remarks in public settings, such comments are unusual in formal encounters with the monarchy.
“It was very awkward. There are so many levels of cringe to this,” Vovk said, noting that members of the Royal Family are accustomed to public attention but not direct personal compliments during official visits.
Robert Finch, chairman of the Monarchist League of Canada, added that Trump’s style of complimenting people on their appearance is consistent with his past interactions, but acknowledged it can feel out of place in a setting steeped in centuries of protocol.
Trump’s remarks join a history of public comments on appearance, including past references to world leaders and journalists, highlighting the cultural differences between the U.S. president’s informal approach and the traditions of the British monarchy.
