Trump's 'Hand of Friendship' to UK Prime Minister Deemed a Power Gesture by Body Language Expert

During their first-ever meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, U.S. President Donald Trump extended a "hand of friendship" to British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. A body language expert described the gesture as a display of power, noting assertive elements in the initial greeting.

Body language expert Judi James told the Daily Mail that while the interaction appeared outwardly friendly, Trump's approach to shaking Burnham's hand was quick and strong, suggesting a significant physical assertion. "Trump's 'hand of friendship' to Burnham is a power gesture thanks to the speed and strength of the clasp," James stated. "He throws his hand out quickly, palm-up and we can hear the smack as the hands hit together."

Burnham's response was observed as more guarded. James noted that the Prime Minister adopted a tense crouch position with tightly clasped hands, forming a protective barrier in front of his torso. As Trump continued to discuss his grievances with the media, particularly his administration's ban on certain news outlets over "fake news" allegations, Burnham appeared to exhibit signs of discomfort and nervousness.

James identified several gestures from Burnham that suggested unease, including repeatedly touching his hair, fiddling with his fingers, playing with his wedding ring, and pulling at his index finger. "His word salad style of speech shows inner nervousness and he later ran through a shade chart of nervous rituals," James commented. Burnham's gaze was observed to drift, suggesting a desire to distance himself from the confrontation and project an image of being above the fray.

Despite Burnham's apparent discomfort, Trump offered praise, calling him a "natural business person" and stating that the U.S.-UK relationship was stronger under his leadership than with the previous Prime Minister, Keir Starmer. Trump also made what James described as deliberate gestures of flattery towards Burnham.

However, the meeting was also marked by a significant political disagreement. Trump voiced his opposition to the Labour government's agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, while allowing Britain and the U.S. to continue using the strategically important Diego Garcia military base. "I don't support it. I think it's a terrible deal," Trump told reporters, calling the situation "ridiculous."

Trump stated that he had discussed the issue with Burnham, who he suggested would be "looking at it." The President emphasized the base's strategic importance and contrasted the current relationship with Burnham with his past dealings with Starmer, recalling Starmer's refusal to allow the U.S. to use Diego Garcia for strikes against Iran.

James also noted a subtle reaction from Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, who was present during the meeting. She claimed Miliband's expression suggested he wished Trump's complimentary words were directed at him.