Trump Mocks UAE Over Oil Drop Gift: Viral Video Sparks Political Buzz

May 17, 2025 9:05 AM

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again grabbed headlines—this time for mocking a symbolic gift from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). During his visit to the Middle East, Trump received what he described as “a single drop” of Murban oil, known for being one of the world’s highest quality crude oils. His sarcastic reaction, caught on video, has since gone viral on social media.

“The highest quality oil there is on the planet and they only gave me a drop of it…so I’m not thrilled!” 🤣 pic.twitter.com/84U8vTMbUU

— Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) May 16, 2025

“Not Too Excited,” Says Trump on Viral Clip

In the video, Trump holds a small vial and remarks, “This is the finest oil on Earth, and I got just one drop. I’m not too excited… but hey, one drop is better than none.” The audience chuckled, including Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE’s Minister of Industry and CEO of ADNOC, who responded with a grin, “Don’t worry, there’s plenty more where that came from.”

What Is Murban Oil and Why Does It Matter?

Murban oil is a light, sweet crude with low sulfur content, making it easy and cost-effective to refine. It’s ideal for producing jet fuel, premium gasoline, and high-grade diesel. UAE exports about 1.6 million barrels per day, though its full production capacity nears 2 million barrels. The oil’s premium status made Trump’s tongue-in-cheek comments especially notable.

A Lavish Jet and Rising Questions

While the one-drop oil gift drew humor, another gift stirred controversy: a $400 million Boeing jet from the Emir of Qatar. Trump reportedly plans to use the jet after minor modifications. The extravagant present triggered fierce backlash in U.S. political circles, especially among Democrats, who labeled it a bribe, not a gift.

Trump dismissed the criticism. “If someone gives you a free plane, refusing it would be foolish,” he said.

Public Reaction Split

Reactions to the video have been mixed. While some viewers found Trump’s humor entertaining, others questioned the optics of accepting gifts from Gulf states amid tense geopolitical dynamics. The jet gift, in particular, has ignited debate over ethics, transparency, and diplomatic propriety.