Speculation has arisen regarding the unusual manner in which Donald Trump walked prior to his meeting with Vladimir Putin.
The American president engaged in discussions with Putin in Alaska on August 15, aiming to broker a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine after over three years of ongoing conflict.
Despite reports of ‘progress’ during this historic meeting, Trump did not divulge specific details about their discussions, although he did acknowledge that no official deal was reached.
Further insights have surfaced following the discovery of papers left at an Alaskan hotel, bearing US State Department markings.
These documents, obtained by NPR, appeared to outline the itinerary for Putin and Trump on that Friday, including meeting locations and times.
Additionally, another document reportedly revealed the opulent four-course lunch menu shared by the two leaders.
Beyond the meeting itself, attention was drawn to the president’s peculiar gait as he disembarked Air Force One.
Footage from various media outlets showed Trump navigating the red carpet in a zig-zag fashion, rather than walking in a straight path.
Given the previous attempt on Trump’s life last year, some speculate that his unconventional walking style is a precaution to make it harder for potential shooters to target him.
One Twitter user proposed: “SURVIVAL: Just last year Trump was shot by an assassin and narrowly escaped a second attempt on his life two months later. The zig-zag pattern is the very best way to frustrate an assassin’s bullet.”
Another individual suggested: “As a Fortnite professional I can tell you he is avoiding potential sniper fire.”
A further comment added: “Likely targets of long range snipers are often directed to walk in a zig zag pattern to decrease the effectiveness of future attacks.”
Meanwhile, other social media users considered the possibility that the president’s distinctive walk could be attributed to his recent chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis, a condition causing swelling in the lower legs and ankles.
As stated by Cleveland Clinic, this condition arises when leg veins become damaged and lose their proper function.
Miami Vein & Wellness explains that this can impact a person’s walking ability.
Their website notes: “If you have CVI, your ankles may swell and your calves may feel tight. Your legs may also feel heavy, tired, restless, or achy. You may feel pain while walking or shortly after stopping.”
LADbible Group has reached out to the White House for a response.