Trump and Saudi Coffee Hospitality: A Sip That Stirred Controversy?
A seemingly simple gesture by former U.S. President Donald Trump sparked widespread debate after his arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Cameras captured Trump holding a traditional Arabic coffee cup without taking a sip — a moment that quickly drew attention on social media platforms. However, during the official reception at Al-Yamamah Palace, he was later seen drinking the coffee, according to the official Saudi Press Agency, which noted that all attendees partook in the tradition.
This moment gained traction due to Trump’s well-known stance on abstaining from certain substances. Throughout his public life, Trump has repeatedly stated that he avoids alcohol, cigarettes, and coffee, and has advised his children to do the same.
In a 2011 interview with CNN, Trump said, “I’ve never done drugs, never smoked cigarettes, and never had coffee.” He reiterated this commitment in his book The America We Deserve, writing: “I’ve lived my life as an open book. I don’t pretend to be something I’m not. What you see is what you get. I’ve never used drugs, never had a drink of alcohol, never smoked a cigarette, and never had a cup of coffee.”
The apparent contradiction left observers divided: some argued that Trump may have simply been honoring Saudi hospitality traditions, while others questioned whether he had softened his long-standing personal rules. Though Trump has not made any comment on the incident, the scene continues to spark discussion about the balance between personal principles and diplomatic courtesy.
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