Royal Rumble: Dutch King's Handshake with Trump Sparks Power Play Debate!
THE ULTIMATE GAME OF POWER PLAY: NETHERLANDS' ROYAL FAMILY REVERSES TRUMP'S HANDSHAKE TACTICS
In a shocking turn of events, a sassy and cunning display of handshaking prowess by King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands has left the world talking. The viral moment, which has racked up over 4.2 million views on TikTok, showcases the Dutch monarch giving US President Donald Trump a run for his money in the power play department.
The drama unfolded during the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague on June 24, where the Netherlands' royal family formally greeted Trump. What ensued was a masterclass in nonverbal communication, with Willem-Alexander gripping Trump's hand and yanking it towards his midriff – a move eerily reminiscent of Trump's own notoriously assertive handshake style.
For years, experts have analyzed Trump's handshake tactics as attempts to assert psychological dominance over world leaders. However, the Dutch king seemed to be saying, "Not on our watch!" Willem-Alexander's bold move has left many questioning whether this was a calculated power play or simply an instinctual response.
A video montage of Trump's handshakes with global figures, including Vladimir Putin and US Justice Neil Gorsuch, sets the context for the Dutch king's daring display. Unlike others who have been caught off guard by Trump's crushing grip, Willem-Alexander appeared poised and composed – almost as if he had studied the greats.
Social media users have praised the king's composure, with many suggesting it was a subtle assertion of equal footing. "The king just flipped the script on Trump's handshake game!" exclaimed one user. Another wrote, "Willem-Alexander is giving us major royal vibes – calm, collected, and unafraid to take charge!"
This development comes hot on the heels of Queen Maxima facing scrutiny for allegedly mocking Trump's mouth movements during a previous meeting. While she has denied the claim, the queen's reaction initially drew attention away from Willem-Alexander's masterful display.
Experts are now weighing in on the significance of this moment. "Trump's handshake tactics have long been analyzed as attempts to assert dominance," said Florin Dolcos, a psychology professor. "But it seems King Willem-Alexander is not afraid to call his bluff."
Neither the Dutch royal family nor Trump's team has publicly commented on the handshake – fueling speculation and further solidifying this moment's place in the annals of viral NATO summit history.
As the world watches with bated breath, one thing is clear: Willem-Alexander's power play has sent shockwaves through the corridors of power. And with over 400,000 likes on TikTok alone, it's safe to say that this isn't just a handshake – it's headline news!
THE SCHOLARLY NOTE EXCLUSIVE
What do you think? Was Willem-Alexander's move intentional or instinctual? Share your thoughts in the comments below!