U.S. President Donald Trump is facing backlash following a controversial remark made during a recent luncheon with African leaders, in which he appeared surprised by Liberian President Joseph Boakai’s command of English—despite English being Liberia’s official language.
The comment occurred during a formal White House gathering on Wednesday that included the Presidents of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal.
Addressing President Boakai, Trump remarked: “Such good English. Beautiful English. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”
The statement quickly sparked criticism on social media and among political commentators, many describing it as patronizing and emblematic of a lack of awareness about international affairs.
“Trump just praised the leader of Liberia for his English. FACT: English is the official language of Liberia. NATIONAL EMBARRASSMENT,” U.S. political commentator Brian Krassenstein posted on X (formerly Twitter).
An account under the handle Trump Lie Tracker added: “Trump patronizingly asks the President of Liberia how he learned to speak English so beautifully. Trump, of course, has no idea that English is the official language of Liberia.”
Founded in 1822 by the American Colonization Society as a resettlement destination for freed African Americans, Liberia declared independence in 1847 and adopted English as its official language. The country remains one of the few in Africa with deep-rooted historical, political, and cultural ties to the United States.
Critics argue the president’s comment reflects a broader pattern of insensitivity and lack of geopolitical knowledge, particularly concerning African nations.
This incident adds to a series of controversial moments in President Trump’s engagement with the international community, drawing renewed scrutiny of his diplomatic conduct.
