The vintage social media post gained fresh traction online following Trump’s reception of Xi and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan at the White House.
WASHINGTON, DC: Following a high-profile summit at the White House where Donald Trump welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping, a viral claim began spreading across social media alleging that Trump had previously criticized Barack Obama for hosting Xi at the Pentagon. The assertion quickly ignited online debate and accusations of hypocrisy, triggering the need for a formal verification.
The Claim: Trump Once Criticized Obama for Hosting Xi Jinping
The controversy started when a screenshot purporting to show an older post by Trump began making the rounds. The text in the captured image read: “So wrong! @Barack Obama is hosting China’s VP Xi Jinping today at the Pentagon with a full honor ceremony with music and cannons…”
As the image racked up millions of views, public reactions split sharply. While many internet users labeled Trump a hypocrite, others insisted the screenshot was a complete fabrication, prompting investigators to check its authenticity.
Fact Check: Verified, the 2012 Post Is Authentic
Records confirm that the claim is entirely accurate. Trump did indeed publish the statement on X (formerly Twitter) back in 2012. At that time, Xi was serving as China’s Vice President and was being hosted by the Obama administration during an official visit to the United States.
A direct audit of Trump’s official social media history confirmed the post was genuine.
“We want to work with China to make sure that everybody is working by the same rules of the road when it comes to the world economic system,” Obama stated at the time while appearing alongside Xi.
“That includes ensuring that there is a balanced trading flow not only between the United States and China but around the world.”
Donald Trump and Xi Jinping Reunite at the White House
The old post resurfaced in the spotlight after Trump greeted Xi and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan at the White House. During the visit, Trump highlighted his rapport with the Chinese leader, while Xi cautioned that neither nation would benefit from entering a conflict.
Highlighting their relationship as a “truly great friendship” rooted in mutual respect and the welfare of their citizens, Trump noted that he and Xi have cultivated a strong bond ever since his initial presidential term began in 2016.
“We have spent time together all over the world, from Germany to Argentina, Japan to South Korea and Beijing to Palm Beach, Florida,” Trump remarked.
“A lot has changed since he was last here,” Trump added, referencing Xi’s prior Washington visit in September 2015.
Additionally, Trump pointed out that Xi holds the distinction of being the first Chinese leader to undertake a second formal state visit to the White House.