The sight did not go unnoticed. During his participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Donald Trump was seen with a distinct dark bruise on the back of his left hand, sparking immediate questions and speculation across social media platforms.
Captured by photographers Chip Somodevilla (Getty Images) and Fabrice Coffrini (AFP) on Thursday in Switzerland, the images depicted Trump attending the unveiling of the new "Board of Peace," surrounded by international leaders and officials.
The bruise drew attention because it appeared on his left hand, not typically the focus in previous instances. Journalist Aaron Rupar highlighted this, noting the mark's substantial size and faded color.
In response to the buzz, the White House provided an explanation. Sara Cook, a CBS News producer and multiplatform reporter, relayed comments from spokesperson Karoline Leavitt. According to Cook's inquiry with the White House, Trump sustained the bruise after bumping his hand against the edge of a signing table during the event in Davos. Initially unmarked at the event's start, the bruise emerged later, and an official mentioned Trump's regular use of aspirin as a factor contributing to bruising.
However, the British outlet The Sun delved deeper, reminding readers that the 79-year-old Trump suffers from chronic venous insufficiency, a condition linked to circulatory issues that can cause swelling and discoloration in limbs, particularly in older adults.
The newspaper pointed out that this diagnosis was confirmed through medical exams, including ultrasounds, though the White House maintains it's a benign condition with no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.
This isn't the first time the president's hand bruises have stirred public discourse. Similar marks were observed on his right hand during official gatherings and public appearances in 2024 and 2025.
Each time, the official explanation remained consistent: frequent handshakes and the routine use of aspirin as part of Trump's cardiovascular care. Trump himself remarked that he shakes hands with "thousands of people," attributing the marks to this activity.
Understanding Trump's Health Concerns
Why was there a bruise on Trump's left hand?
The White House explained that the bruise resulted from Trump hitting his hand on a table edge during an event. Regular aspirin use was also cited as a contributing factor to bruising.
What is chronic venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition where veins have problems sending blood from the limbs back to the heart, often leading to swelling and discoloration, particularly in older individuals.
Has Trump had similar bruises before?
Yes, Trump has had similar bruises on his right hand in previous years, attributed to frequent handshakes and aspirin use.