A video showing US President Donald Trump appearing to briefly doze off during the launch of his “Board of Peace” has gone viral, triggering debate online even as the administration announced major global peace commitments.
Viral clip sparks online debate
The footage, recorded at the United States Institute of Peace, shows the 79-year-old president seated with his eyes closed and head slightly drooping while military officials and international representatives addressed the gathering.
The moment reportedly occurred during remarks by Major General Jasper Jeffers III. Social media users were quick to speculate whether the president had fallen asleep during the high-profile meeting.
Several posts on X criticised Trump’s alertness and stamina, while others mocked the moment. The clip has added to previous instances where Trump appeared fatigued at public events.
Trump has earlier denied such claims. Responding to similar footage last year, he said he had merely closed his eyes and insisted, “I don’t sleep much.” The White House has maintained that he remains in good health and continues to discharge his duties actively.
Major global commitments announced
Despite the viral moment, the meeting marked a significant diplomatic push. Trump announced that the United States would contribute USD 10 billion to support the newly launched Board of Peace, aimed at global reconstruction and stabilisation efforts.
He said nine countries — including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Kazakhstan — pledged more than USD 7 billion collectively towards relief initiatives. Several nations, including Indonesia, Morocco, Albania and Kosovo, agreed to deploy forces for stabilisation missions, while Egypt and Jordan committed to training Palestinian security personnel.
Trump also urged Iran to reach a diplomatic agreement on its nuclear programme, warning of serious consequences if negotiations failed.
While the Board of Peace initiative drew representatives from over 40 countries, the viral clip has dominated public discourse, overshadowing what the White House described as a major international peace effort.