Donald and Melania Trump appeared unusually affectionate during a recent trip to Rome, prompting renewed scrutiny of their relationship as the former president faces mounting political pressure and physical signs of aging. The couple, known for years of public distance and stiff interactions, were photographed holding hands, laughing, and sharing a kiss-an uncommon display for the Trumps.
"There is a possibility that he is reaching for Melania for both emotional and physical stability... the president is getting older. His gait is not as steady," a source told the Daily Mail. The couple celebrated Melania's 55th birthday during the trip, coinciding with their 20th wedding anniversary.
The change in tone marks a notable departure from past optics. During Trump's first term in office, Melania was often seen pulling her hand away, walking several steps behind her husband, or visibly disengaged at high-profile events. Those moments sparked the viral "Free Melania" campaign, which speculated that she was unwillingly trapped in the marriage.
"The narrative that Melania is a hostage in this marriage is a liberal fantasy that someone like her cannot be that close to someone like him," a source told the Daily Mail. "These faux concerns are always couched in terms of sympathy, but they really diminish her agency and render her an un-powerful woman."
Amid ongoing scrutiny of Trump's tariffs and controversial foreign policy stances, including backlash from Amazon and criticism over the war in Ukraine, some insiders say Melania plays a grounding role. "The president has had a difficult few weeks. Melania provides an oasis because she remains above and outside the political fray," one source added.
Despite the uptick in public warmth, the couple reportedly continues to maintain separate sleeping arrangements. "They ate dinner together every night, though they did not share a bedroom. Trump slept in a room adjacent to the yellow oval room," a source said, comparing the setup to that of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.
Melania addressed the public speculation in her 2024 memoir, calling the "false narrative" surrounding her marriage "disheartening." While some reports have highlighted her demands during Trump's first White House term-such as occupying a separate suite-the former First Lady has sought to dispel suggestions that the arrangement signifies discord.
"They'll now basically go back to something along those very same lines-if not in the very same rooms," a source said. "To put it succinctly, Melania finds Donald revolting," the source added, referencing longstanding speculation about the couple's private relationship.
Still, others insist the Trumps are functioning as a team. "This is a solid partnership. They have been married 20 years, there is a synergy between them," said one insider. "The residence staff really liked the Trumps during the first term. If you have a frigid marriage on a knife's edge, staff can tell and it's uncomfortable. There was a good vibe from the housekeepers."
