Donald Trump raised eyebrows after rolling out a surreal red-carpet welcome for Chinese President Xi Jinping, while dressed for a freezing blizzard.
US Marines were spotted smoothing out a crimson carpet on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland as the Chinese leader made his arrival on Wednesday evening. Xi descended the steps of his plane to meet his American counterpart, who was wrapped up in a heavy winter coat and leather gloves despite mild temperatures sitting at a comfortable 18°C.
The bizarre wardrobe choice immediately triggered mockery from online commentators. Journalist Aaron Rupar pointed out the apparent wardrobe malfunction, writing: “It is 64 degrees at Joint Base Andrews right now and yet Trump is wearing gloves are he greets President Xi.”
The pair stood alongside their spouses for an increasingly awkward ceremony that featured a full national anthem performance, a roaring cannon salute and a military flyover overhead.