Germans strongly mocked Donald Trump during their biggest carnival celebration of the year, and it happened on the same day Americans were marking Presidents Day.
During Rose Monday, known in Germany as Rosenmontag, large parade floats rolled through the streets of cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz. The event is part of a long tradition that goes back to the early 1800s. Every year, the carnival uses humor, exaggeration, and bold images to criticize political leaders from around the world.
This year, Trump was one of the main figures shown in several floats.
One float showed Trump hitting a bruised figure of Jesus. On Trump’s sleeve were the letters “ICE,” referring to U.S. immigration enforcement. On Jesus’ clothing were the words “Love & humanity.” The image appeared to criticize strict immigration policies and suggest that they go against compassion and kindness.
Another float showed Trump in a controversial scene with the Statue of Liberty. The statue’s mouth was covered with red tape labeled “MAGA.” Trump was shown with a tattoo reading “Stormy” on his thigh. This was a reference to his legal case involving hush-money payments connected to Stormy Daniels.
A separate float appeared to mock what critics see as strong loyalty or praise from some leaders and institutions toward Trump. In that display, he was shown with lipstick marks on his backside, symbolizing exaggerated admiration or submission.
Other floats focused on Trump’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. One image showed Trump kneeling near Putin’s shoes. Another showed both men eating an animal labeled “Europa,” representing Europe. The message seemed to reflect concerns among some Europeans about Trump’s approach to Russia and foreign policy.
Rose Monday is known for bold and sometimes shocking political satire. German carnival artists often target world leaders, including German politicians and others from Europe and beyond. The goal is to spark discussion and criticism through humor and symbolism.
The fact that the parade took place on Presidents Day in the United States added extra meaning. On that same day, former President George W. Bush released a message honoring George Washington. In his statement, Bush praised Washington for stepping down after two terms and for putting the country before personal power.
Although Bush did not mention Trump, some people saw his message as an indirect reminder about leadership, humility, and respect for democratic traditions.
Together, the carnival floats in Germany and Bush’s message in the U.S. created a moment where Trump became the focus of criticism, both through satire abroad and reflection at home.
