A diplomatic meeting at the White House took an unexpected turn when President Donald Trump shared a playful exchange with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on November 10, 2025. Cameras captured Trump spritzing cologne on both Sharaa and another official, joking that it was “the best fragrance” before handing the bottle to the visiting leader.
A Joke That Sparked Laughter
Moments later, Trump surprised the room again with a bold question: “How many wives? One?” Sharaa nodded, and Trump replied, “With you guys, I never know,” giving him a friendly tap on the shoulder. Sharaa returned the humor, asking Trump how many wives he had. Trump grinned and answered, “Right now? One,” sending the room into laughter.
Serious Incident Days Earlier
The light moment followed a much more tense scene at the White House on November 6. During a press event on lowering drug prices, a pharmaceutical representative collapsed near the Oval Office desk. Dr. Mehmet Oz, now leading Medicare and Medicaid, rushed in to help as officials ushered reporters out.
Online reactions poured in, with many noting Trump’s stiff expression as he watched the emergency unfold. Others pointed to the eerie timing — another fainting incident had taken place months earlier during Dr. Oz’s swearing-in ceremony.
Official Update
The press secretary later confirmed the man recovered and the conference resumed. Novo Nordisk, however, clarified that early reports misidentified the individual. Despite unanswered questions, the incident — paired with the lighter cologne exchange — kept the White House in the public eye for very different reasons this week.