Social media users are once again questioning U.S. President Donald Trump’s health after a new image of his hand began circulating online.
Earlier this year, photos from Trump’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron—held on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine—sparked speculation after observers noticed a dark mark on the back of his right hand.
Following the press conference, the image quickly gained attention, with users on X (formerly Twitter) commenting on the apparent bruise.
One user wrote, “Scrolling Getty and couldn’t help but notice this photo of a huge bruise on Trump’s hand today.”
Another pointed out, “Some photos over the last few months show bruising on Trump’s hand… Always seems to be on the same hand.”
A third added, “Trump has a massive bruise on the back of his right hand. How did he get that?”
Some speculated that Trump had attempted to cover the mark with makeup, pointing to a Getty Images description that mentioned the area being “covered in make-up.”
At the time, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed concerns, attributing the bruising to the president’s high level of engagement with the public.
“President Trump is a man of the people and meets more Americans and shakes more hands on a daily basis than any other president in history,” Leavitt said in a statement, per NBC.
She later reiterated this point, adding, “President Trump has bruises on his hand because he’s constantly working and shaking hands all day, every day.”
Mark Reappears, Raising Fresh Questions
This week, the issue resurfaced when Trump was photographed during a meeting with Irish leader Micheál Martin. Once again, the mark was visible, prompting renewed speculation online.
Experts weighed in on possible explanations. Speaking to The Mirror, Dr. Anatalia Moore, a skin specialist, suggested the bruising could be related to Trump’s age.
“For many patients in their 70s—especially those who are not what we call a ‘fit 70’—even a small bump against a doorframe can cause significant bruising,” Dr. Moore explained. “Our hands and limbs are particularly vulnerable to knocks, especially as balance and coordination decline with age.”
She further elaborated on the science behind bruising, noting that initial dark purple or red discoloration occurs due to blood pooling under the skin. As the body repairs the area, the color shifts to green and yellow, a process that takes longer in older individuals due to slower healing.
While the White House has maintained that Trump’s bruising is nothing unusual, speculation remains rife as images of his discolored hand continue to circulate.