A video from a high-profile diplomatic banquet in China has triggered widespread discussion online after former US President Donald Trump was seen appearing to take a sip from a glass that many viewers believed contained champagne during an official toast hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The brief moment, captured during the formal state dinner, quickly spread across social media platforms as users debated whether Trump — known publicly for avoiding alcohol throughout his life — had broken one of his most recognised personal habits.

In the viral footage, Trump can be seen receiving the drink from an aide before raising the glass during the ceremonial toast alongside Chinese officials and guests at the banquet. Moments later, he appeared to take a small sip, prompting immediate online speculation and political commentary.

No official clarification has been issued regarding the contents of the glass served during the event. However, the visual alone was enough to ignite conversation because Trump has repeatedly spoken in the past about his decision to stay away from alcohol.

Trump’s stance on drinking has long been associated with the death of his elder brother, Fred Trump Jr., who struggled with alcoholism before passing away at a relatively young age. The experience reportedly had a lasting impact on Trump and shaped his personal choice to abstain from alcohol entirely.

The banquet moment has since divided opinion online. Some commentators suggested the gesture was simply part of diplomatic protocol during an international state function, while others viewed it as an unusual departure from Trump’s longstanding public image.

The incident also drew attention because of the broader geopolitical backdrop of Trump’s China visit, which has been closely watched amid ongoing discussions around trade, diplomacy and strategic relations between Washington and Beijing.