Donald Trump awkwardly shook the hand of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a total of 19 seconds, leaving him looking a little... shaken.
In what's being described as one of the most awkward moments of Donald Trump's presidency so far, it happened as he posed for photos at the White House with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
The Japanese leader suggested they shake hands for the cameras, but then President Trump simply wouldn't let go for 19 seconds.
Mr Abe visibly grimaced with embarrassment when the president finally released his grip - sparking a flurry of social media comments. "Strong hands," Trump said to Abe as the media left the room.
The Japanese Prime Minister conducted the meeting in his native language. For the tail end of the conference, it appeared that Trump had his earpiece in, when before he hadn't used it.
A reporter for CNN later confirmed that Mr Trump was going off cues from his advisers.
Zeleny said when Trump didn't have his earpiece on, he was following cues from his aides on when to laugh https://t.co/dH10uGi718
— Daniella Diaz (@DaniellaMicaela) February 10, 2017
After the conference, Trump enthusiastically exclaimed, "Let's go to Florida!" Trump, Abe and their wives are scheduled to spend the weekend together at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate.
Pres. Trump and Japanese PM Abe meet, shake hands in the Oval Office https://t.co/rG1oCqyhkf pic.twitter.com/njJ13Qi3s1
— CBS News (@CBSNews) February 10, 2017
