Queen Máxima of the Netherlands is facing online backlash after a video clip surfaced appearing to show her subtly mocking former U.S. President Donald Trump during his recent visit to The Hague for the NATO summit.
Trump traveled to the Netherlands this week to attend the annual NATO meeting, which took place on June 24–25. As part of his diplomatic visit, he stopped by Huis ten Bosch Palace to meet with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. The trio posed for photos during the president’s visit, with Trump smiling broadly and offering a trademark thumbs-up gesture to the cameras.
However, what seemed like a routine photo op has sparked viral speculation. In a short video clip circulating online, Queen Máxima appears to mimic Trump’s mouth movements after he says “thank you.” She then glances directly into the camera in a moment reminiscent of the mockumentary style of The Office — prompting an immediate camera zoom-out.
While it’s unclear whether the Queen intended the gesture to be mocking, social media has been quick to weigh in.
“Queen Máxima mimicking Trump’s mouth movements really got me,” one user wrote.
“Poor lady just earned herself an entire Truth Social post,” joked another.
“WAIT A MINUTE—WAS QUEEN MÁXIMA OF THE NETHERLANDS MIMICKING DONALD TRUMP?” a third exclaimed.
Some praised the Queen for the apparent moment of subtle defiance, calling it humorous and even bold.
“This is hilarious,” one commenter said. “I’ve never been a fan of our stiff monarchy, but Queen Máxima rocks it. Treat him like a baby!”
Others, however, were less amused — calling the behavior disrespectful and unbecoming of a royal.
“What an unprofessional and petty thing to do,” one user posted. “Not only for someone of her position, but for any adult. I hope this gets back to President Trump — and it will. It always does.”
In response to the viral moment, body language expert Darren Stanton, speaking on behalf of Genting Casino, weighed in on the dynamic observed in the press photos.
“In the image featuring President Trump, King Willem-Alexander, and Queen Máxima, the Queen appears to assert the most dominant presence. While the King is seen displaying a self-soothing gesture by covering his abdomen, Queen Máxima is turned toward Trump and mirrors his posture — suggesting she may be trying to exert subtle control in the interaction.”
Whether the gesture was intentional mockery, an awkward moment, or something lost in translation, Queen Máxima has unintentionally stirred global commentary — all during what should have been a routine diplomatic photo call.
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