Trump aimed to connect, not dominate, in Xi meeting, body language expert says

President Trump displayed notably non-aggressive body language toward Chinese leader Xi Jinping during the White House state dinner, according to body language expert Sean Johns, who said Trump aimed to connect rather than dominate. Johns observed Trump closing the distance with Xi and avoiding his typical forceful handshake, interpreting this as a sign of respect. However, he noted incongruence in Trump's toast, where positive words were paired with neutral body language, and a genuine smile only appeared when discussing the new ballroom. The expert highlighted a lack of physical aggression throughout the event, suggesting Trump took the meeting seriously due to Xi's importance. He also noted Trump's approving gestures toward the bald eagle statue gift, signaling pride in the offering.