Donald Trump is under fire (again) after an awkward exchange with a female reporter left viewers cringing – and critics furious.
The moment happened during a White House peace signing ceremony between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, a historic event meant to help end decades of conflict. But instead of focusing on diplomacy, Trump decided to get weirdly personal.
🗣️ ‘Karoline said I shouldn’t say this’… then said it anyway
Trump spotted Angolan reporter Hariana Verás, who covers the White House, and apparently couldn’t help himself. Despite press secretary Karoline Leavitt warning him not to comment on her appearance, Trump dove in head-first.
“Karoline said this, number one, that I shouldn’t say this because it’s politically incorrect… but you are beautiful—and you’re beautiful inside. I wish I had more reporters like you.”
He even joked:
“That could be the end of my political career.”
Spoiler alert: this isn’t his first “end of career” moment.
😳 Social media calls it out as ‘embarrassing grandpa’ energy
The room laughed. Verás smiled. But the internet? Not so forgiving.
On Reddit, users compared Trump’s remarks to a “grandpa talking to a server at Applebee’s,” and accused him of reducing women’s worth to their looks.
“This is the only value he attributes to women. Beautiful or not beautiful. Women have no other worth to him whatsoever,” one user wrote.
Others pointed out that “sometimes it’s best if things just stay thoughts and never become words. That’s called ‘manners.’”
🤦 JD Vance didn’t help either
Vice President JD Vance, standing in the background, was also called out for grinning along like it was all perfectly fine.
“Vance in the back acting like this is normal and adorable,” said one X user.
Others praised Verás’ outfit but questioned the context.
“She actually does look very nice… but what an odd thing to say.”
One viewer summed it up best:
“Trump’s objectification of women, even in professional settings, exemplifies his ongoing disregard for gender equality.”
You can watch it below:
You may also like: Watch: ‘Unreal’ – Trump’s wild rant about Japan has everyone confused
