In first, Trump dons masks during military hospital visit

ALEX EDELMAN / AFP

US President Donald Trump has been photographed wearing a face mask for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

He was meeting wounded soldiers and health care workers at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

"I think when you are in a hospital, especially in that particular setting when you are talking to a lot of soldiers, people that in some cases just got off the operating table, I think it’s a great thing to wear a mask," Trump told reporters at the White House ahead of his visit.

Despite top health officials recommending the use of masks to slow the spread of the virus, the president has refused to wear a mask until now. In fact, he has dissuaded Americans from wearing it, calling it a personal choice.

More from International News

News

  • UAE intercepts 9 ballistic missiles, 109 drones

    The UAE air defences said it has intercepted 9 ballistic missiles detected in the region on Friday. Of the 112 drones detected, 109 were intercepted with 3 falling within the country's territory.

  • H.H. Sheikh Mohammed introduces new public safety law

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued a new law on Friday, aimed at strengthening public safety across Dubai, setting out stricter standards for venues, events and public spaces.

  • Malaysia’s PM condemns Iranian attack in call with UAE President

    UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed, on Friday, the latest developments in the region and the escalating military action that threatens regional and international security and stability.