Trump's alleged face droop at 9/11 memorial sparks 'stroke' speculation; 'did he fall asleep?'

President Donald Trump's lip drooped as he slouched in his chair during a 9/11 observance ceremony at the Pentagon on Friday, which he chose to attend over the event at Ground Zero in New York City.

President Trump appeared to slouch and droop during the 9/11 observance ceremony. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)Trump appears slouched beside Melania during 9/11 ceremonyPresident Trump was sitting next to his wife, Melania, during the ceremony. His body appeared hunched over, and his lip seemed to droop as he appeared tired.

Trump and Melania listened as the names of the 184 people killed at the Pentagon on 9/11 were read out.

Journalist Aaron Rupar, posted on X, “Trump's face droops while he attends the 9/11 ceremony this morning at the Pentagon.”

The speculation comes as facial drooping is widely recognized as a possible sign of stroke, sometimes referred to in medical terms as “facial weakness following a cerebrovascular accident,” which is likely why online users connected Trump's appearance to concerns about his health.

Earlier that morning, despite heavy rain, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior military officials stood outside the Pentagon as a giant American flag was unfurled on the building that was hit by one of the hijacked planes 25 years ago, according to the Irish Star.

Also read: What role did Saudi Arabia have in 9/11 attacks? Victim widow Terry Strada unleashes scathing criticism at NYC memorial

Reactions to Trump's appearance at the ceremony were mixed. One person wrote on X, “His mouth is drooping again. He's had a stroke. And nobody wants to talk about it.”

Another user pushed back on the criticism, writing, “The man is 80 years old, rarely sleeps and has worked tirelessly with very little rest to save this country from political corruption and ruin. The enemy is within… brainwashed useful idiots like @atrupar and power hungry politicians who would see the country destroyed for their own personal gain.”

Third wrote, “It's a still photo. I'm no fan of Trump, but who cares?”

Another wrote, “A Sleepy Donald Trump has decided to take a nap at the Pentagon Ceremony.”

Khushi Arora is a Content Producer at Hindustan Times, where she writes for the US Desk, covering everything happening in the United States, while maintaining quality and delivering impactful stories across all beats. She previously worked at Zee News for over a year where she explored multiple beats including News Desk, Education and Lifestyle. With a background in English Literature, Khushi blends sharp research with thoughtful storytelling, shaping stories that go beyond headlines and bring clarity and credibility to every piece she writes. Beyond the newsroom, she enjoys reading, watching cinema and loves having long conversations about books, films and everything in between.Read More