Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently convened in an effort to find a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A body language expert has offered insights into a brief interaction between the two leaders in the presence of the press.
On October 17, President Trump and Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy met to discuss potential peaceful solutions to the situation between Ukraine and Russia.
The American president has increased his efforts to mediate the situation, having previously warned of a ‘new step of aggression’ if a peace agreement wasn’t reached soon. In response, Russia has issued its own warnings.
During a meeting at the White House, reports indicate that the discussions between Zelenskyy and Trump took a tense turn.
The 79-year-old Trump allegedly suggested that Ukraine should concede to Putin’s terms, which involved ceding the entire Donbas region.
Zelenskyy, at 47, rejected this proposition, leading to an exchange of heated words between the two leaders.
Despite the lack of progress towards a peace agreement, Trump has expressed optimism about the outcome.
Before the meeting, Trump addressed reporters, expressing confidence that they could find a way to persuade Russia to end the conflict.
Body language expert Dr. Beth Dawson analyzed Zelenskyy’s behavior during this public interaction.
She observed: “When Trump is asked by the journalists whether he can persuade President Putin to end the war, he straightens up and nods and says ‘yep we can’.
“Zelensky’s reaction is more subtle but telling. He presses his lips together, a small sign of tension or restraint often linked to frustration or a held-back response. Rather than challenge Trump or show visible discomfort, he turns towards him and smiles.”
Dr. Dawson continued: “The pressed lips hint at the pressure of leading a nation at war, while the smile restores calm and signals cooperation. It is a clear example of emotional control in a difficult setting.”
While Zelenskyy remains opposed to ceding territory, Trump reiterated in a recent interview that he anticipates Putin will gain some land.
During an appearance on Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo, Trump mentioned a two-hour phone conversation he had with Putin earlier in the week.
He was questioned about whether Putin would consider returning Ukrainian territory.
Trump responded: “Well, he’s gonna take something. I mean, they fought and, he, uh, he has a lot of property. I mean, you know … he’s won certain property.”
He concluded: “You know, we’re the only country that goes in, wins a war and then leaves.”