A number of users on X referred to the situation as “sad,” while others resorted to expletives. Regardless, a video featuring Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin went viral, but not in a favorable light.
The crypto community on X.com, not particularly known for its politeness, took aim at Buterin for kneeling in front of a robot and making what sounds like a “meow” noise.
For some, the video highlighted the need to be optimistic about Ethereum’s present and future. For others, it was the perfect candidate for a Studio Ghibli-style photo edit. Most users simply kept scrolling. Check it out below.
The short clip captures Buterin gently patting the robot’s head after producing the odd sound. Although he hasn’t yet addressed the video, it has sparked discussions, especially in light of Ether’s recent price declines.
At the time of writing, Ether has seen a nearly 55% drop since it surpassed the $4,000 mark in December 2024, currently trading at $1,833 — down more than 8% just over the past week.
Some figures within the crypto space have voiced their alarm, with one commentator humorously remarking that Ether’s price situation is more concerning than Buterin’s unusual antics.
When Buterin attempted to discuss “how to fund public goods,” he was met with trolling from the community, receiving responses like, “NO ONE F–KING CARE[S]” and “YOU ARE THE ONLY FOUNDER THAT IS DOING 0 APART FROM DUMPING YOUR AIRDROPS! WAKE UP VITALIK.”
It’s important to note that Buterin has long been recognized for his eccentric nature and, according to a recent feature, described as “monkish.”
However, his quirks occasionally draw criticism. For instance, Iggy Azalea mocked Buterin for performing at TOKEN2049 in Singapore, labeling it as “loser s—.”
Buterin’s political stance is also not easily defined, which is somewhat refreshing amid today’s polarized crypto environment. He has openly criticized former SEC chair Gary Gensler and raised concerns about “large-scale political coins”—seemingly a jab at Trump.
While many crypto leaders have aligned themselves with Trump’s pro-crypto views, Buterin has set himself apart by rejecting what he terms the “bronze-aged mindset” embraced by some in the crypto world.
As Ether navigates uncertain prospects and Buterin’s actions fuel speculation, it remains to be seen whether his unique approach to decentralization or his refusal to adopt Trump’s crypto-friendly policies will dictate Ethereum’s future trajectory.