During a recent meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, some observers couldn’t help but notice President Donald Trump’s ankles, which appeared swollen and were clearly visible over his shoes. The meeting itself was cordial, despite Trump’s previously rocky relationship with Petro, including past accusations that Colombia was sending cocaine into the U.S. and threats of military action.
Photos from the meeting show Trump’s ankles noticeably bulging as he spoke with Petro, with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio also present. Afterward, Trump downplayed past tensions, telling reporters, “He and I weren’t exactly the best of friends, but I wasn’t insulted because I never met him. I didn’t know him at all.” He added, “We had a very good meeting. I thought he was terrific.”
Concerns about Trump’s health have persisted since he became the oldest U.S. president to take office. In July last year, he underwent a medical checkup after noticing mild swelling in his lower legs. The White House revealed that he has chronic venous insufficiency, a condition common in older adults where small valves in the veins gradually fail to move blood effectively. Reports have highlighted other health questions surrounding Trump in recent years.
Dr. Anahita Dua, a vascular surgeon not involved in Trump’s care, explained that while there’s no cure for the condition, most cases including likely Trump’s are mild to moderate. Patients can manage swelling through medical-grade compression socks or regular walking to help blood flow back to the heart. Even so, his recurring hand bruise has also drawn public attention.
Trump has also faced scrutiny over a recurring bruise on his hand, though the White House maintains he is in good health. Press secretary Davis Ingle described him as “the sharpest, most accessible, and energetic president in modern American history.”
Beyond health discussions, the meeting touched on diplomacy and trade. Petro invited Trump to visit Cartagena, describing it as “a cool and beautiful place to live,” and asked for help mediating a trade dispute between Colombia and Ecuador. Trump gifted Petro a signed copy of The Art of the Deal, writing, “You are great.” Petro shared a photo of the book online, commenting in Spanish with a hint of irony: “What did Trump mean to say to me with this dedication? I don’t understand English very well.” For more on Trump’s recent interactions with world leaders, see this update.
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