Trump yanked around by Portuguese president during aggressive handshake

US leader notorious for vigorous greetings beaten at his own game by European counterpart

Donald Trump's powerful handshake has become a hallmark of his meetings with other world leaders, fascinating armchair psychologists who see his vigorous technique as a tactic to assert authority.

The president was beaten at his own game, however, during an encounter with his Portuguese counterpart at the White House this week.

Footage shows Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa powerfully yank Mr Trump towards him as the two leaders clasped hands.

Mr Trump even appeared to briefly lose his balance as he was tugged forcefully by the Portuguese president.

The pair met on Wednesday to discuss an upcoming Nato summit, and trade and security, although their conversation soon shifted onto Russian president Vladimir Putin and World Cup football.

The two leaders' handshake is the latest in a long line of awkward greetings involving Mr Trump, although it is usually the US president who is the aggressor.

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, French president Emmanuel Macron and Supreme Court just Neil Gorsuch have all fallen victim to his vice-like grip.

Even a Vietnam War veteran receiving a Medal of Honour was not spared the notorious move, dubbed the "clasp and yank".