People notice Trump’s attempted tug-of-wa:r handshake with Paraguay president that he just ‘can’t pull off’

Donald Trump’s well-known handshake style has once again sparked discussion online after many people claimed he finally met someone who wouldn’t play along — Paraguay’s president, Santiago Peña.

Trump is famous for greeting world leaders with a firm handshake that often turns into a brief tug-of-war, a move many observers believe he uses to show dominance.

For example, during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin last year, body-language expert Patty Ann Wood told Newsweek that Trump’s approach appeared to be a calculated display of power. She explained that Trump typically keeps the handshake close to his body and pulls the other person inward, which can signal control or authority.

While that tactic has worked with several leaders in the past, Peña didn’t seem willing to give in.

Their interaction happened at the Shields of America Summit, held at the Trump National Doral Miami resort in Florida on March 7.

During a photo opportunity, the two leaders stood side by side and shook hands. Observers quickly noticed that Trump appeared to try pulling Peña’s hand toward him — something he has done during many previous greetings.

However, Peña maintained his position and kept both his arm and Trump’s hand close to his own side, preventing the usual pulling motion.

The moment quickly drew reactions online, with many people criticizing Trump’s handshake style.

On Reddit, one user commented that someone should “pull his arm right out of its socket” the next time Trump attempts the move. Another joked that it would be amusing to see what happens if someone suddenly lets go while Trump is pulling.

Others mocked the interaction, saying Peña made Trump look awkward during the exchange.

Still, not everyone found the moment amusing.

Some people on X (formerly Twitter) defended Trump, saying the handshake is simply a “power move” that many leaders are not prepared for.

Others speculated that the awkward moment could have political consequences, joking that Paraguay might face higher tariffs afterward.

The meeting took place as Trump spoke about cooperation between the United States and several Latin American countries to combat criminal organizations, particularly drug trafficking networks and transnational gangs.

According to Trump, these groups represent a serious threat to national security. He stated that defeating them would require strong cooperation, including the use of military forces when necessary.

UNILAD has contacted the White House for comment regarding the incident.