From Lead Stories · · 40s
Fact Check: Edited Video Doesn't Prove King Refused Zelenskyy Handshake
Sweden's king and Zelenskyy shook hands in April 2026 video shows.
In brief
Sweden's king and Zelenskyy shook hands in April 2026 video shows. Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf shook hands with Zelenskyy in Lviv on April 17, 2026, contradicting a viral claim about refusal. Originally reported by Lead Stories.
Claimed Video
A post on X claimed Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf refused Zelenskyy's handshake in Lviv on April 22, 2026.
“Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf refuses Zelenskyy's handshake. Zelenskyy spits toward the king's feet. The King stares in disbelief.”
Actual Video Footage
The 20-second video shows the king and Zelenskyy shaking hands immediately after the king exits the car in Lviv on April 17, 2026.
Handshake Confirmed
Reuters and Getty Images footage confirms the king and Zelenskyy shook hands multiple times during the April 17, 2026 meeting in Lviv.
The one thing
Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf shook hands with Zelenskyy in Lviv on April 17, 2026, contradicting a viral claim about refusal.
