Turkish President Erdoğan Criticized for Slapping Child on Stage

Video shows Erdoğan striking a boy who hesitated to kiss his hand during a public event in Rize province.

The incident occurred during the opening of an urban renewal project in Rize, Turkey.
Erdoğan extended his hand for a traditional kiss of respect, but the boy hesitated.
The video sparked a debate online, with some defending the act as cultural correction and others condemning it.
This is not the first time Erdoğan has faced backlash for similar actions involving children.
The footage has gone viral, drawing widespread attention and criticism.