A bizarre moment at the NATO summit has spawned what might be 2024’s biggest meme yet. Video footage shows outgoing Dutch PM Mark Rutte appearing to call Donald Trump “daddy” during discussions about Middle East tensions – though Rutte later denied using the term.
The awkward exchange occurred as Trump compared Israel and Iran to “two kids in a schoolyard” fighting. Rutte chimed in: “Then Daddy has to sometimes use strong language to get it stopped,” sparking immediate internet frenzy.
The White House leaned into the viral moment, posting a surreal montage of Trump’s Netherlands trip set to Usher’s “Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home).” The official video shows Trump meeting Dutch royals and NATO leaders with the playful soundtrack.
Reactions have been sharply divided. Some called the post “cringe” and questioned if it came from a parody account. “I refuse to believe this is real,” one critic tweeted. Others found it hilarious, with fans praising the social media team’s bold humor.
The meme-worthy incident follows Trump’s controversial NATO visit, where Queen Máxima appeared to mock him during a royal meeting. The “daddy” comment adds another layer to what’s already been a headline-grabbing European trip.
While Rutte insists he didn’t actually say “daddy,” the internet has already embraced the moment. Supporters are calling it “epic” content, with one fan joking: “This is the funniest White House ever.”
Whether awkward slip or intentional joke, the “daddy” moment has cemented itself in 2024’s meme history – proving once again that Trump’s presidency continues to blur the lines between politics and viral entertainment.