Trump and Putin’s Handshake at Alaska Summit Analyzed by Body Language Experts

Body language experts have analyzed the greeting and departure gestures between former U.S. President Donald Trump, 79, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, 72, during their summit at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

Body language expert Patti Wood observed that Donald Trump projected confidence and optimism when greeting Vladimir Putin on the tarmac. “Trump turned toward Putin and applauded as he came forward, which, as the host, is generally seen as a celebratory gesture,” Wood told The Post. She noted that Trump’s broad smile and overall demeanor indicated he anticipated a positive meeting.

Once the handshake began, however, Wood described a subtle contest of control. Trump pulled Putin’s hand in close to his body, a gesture he has often used to assert dominance, and followed it with a pat on Putin’s arm. “That pat communicates, ‘Let go, I’m the one in charge,’” she explained. Putin responded with a pat on Trump’s shoulder, a gesture Trump quickly mirrored. Wood described the exchange as “a subtle contest for dominance.”

By the end of the initial exchange, the leaders appeared to relax, walking side by side “like buddies,” according to Wood.

Another body language analyst, Dr. Beth Dawson, said the interaction suggested a “genuine connection” between the two leaders.

Following the summit, which lasted three hours and did not produce an agreement on ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, Trump’s body language shifted. Wood observed that during the final handshake, Trump’s gestures were more restrained. She described it as a “slice” handshake, with his hand extended sideways and fingers straightened, paired with an expression of weariness. “Trump is sideways rather than facing Putin, and that’s his desire to escape and get away,” she explained.

Putin, in contrast, leaned backward and smiled during the farewell.

Both leaders declined to answer questions at the joint press conference that followed the summit.

Article Source: nypost.com