Trump's wink at reporter, poised index finger: Body language expert analyses Zelenskyy episode at Oval Office

As the brutal showdown between US President Donald Trump, Vice President J D Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rattles world, speculations are rife that the whole episode may have been a 'planned political mugging' by Trump himself. Reason: His wink at pro-Right reporter Brian Glenn.

Many believe the unprecedented spectacle that shocked the world was orchestrated and Trump's wink to Glenn who questioned Zelenskyy on his military-style clothing was a hint. Glenn had riled up Zelenskyy before the encounter by asking "why don't you wear a suit.. do you own a suit"?

Zelenskyy pushed back at Glenn who retorted that "a lot of Americans have problems with you not respecting the dignity of this office."

Glenn is the boyfriend of far-Right congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who posted on X after the episode about how proud she was of him.

Meanwhile, Trump interrupted Zelensky to assure him that he liked his clothes. Trump then looked at Glenn and commented that Zelenskyy was "dressed beautifully." The Ukrainian President immediately retorted that he preferred to answer more "serious questions," after which Trump turned to look at Glenn and wink.  

Reports are that advisors had urged Zelenskyy to wear a suit "as a mark of respect for Trump," but he opted not to.

What body language expert said

Meanwhile, body language expert Judi James told UK-based Mirror that the President's annoyance was registered via his poised index finger. She added that both men "appeared relaxed and in tune enough to perform a little banter before the fight," but things soon went kaput.

“Zelenskyy was seen to react to some of Trump's points, especially mention of both Russian and Ukrainian losses and then mentions of the relationship between Trump and Putin with some mugging in terms of his facial expressions to suggest disagreement or that the President might be wrong. But then Zelensky leant forward in his seat to give a passionate history lesson and it was some point after that when Vance became triggered into intervening on behalf of his boss," she added.

She also analysed Vance's expression, stating the Vice President "held both hands up" like conducting a scene. This prompted Zelenskyy to change his posture to a closed one, with arms folded. He also looked away to hint at "total cut-off barrier behaviour."

She added that Trump, "an alpha" joining in the fight was insane. "Trump raised one index finger firmly in the air to register authority, but the shouting increased. Trump yelled at Zelensky 'You're gambling with starting WW3'. His index finger waggled and was raised and he wore a frown of what looked like utter disbelief," James told Mirror.

She added that Trump's act showed his willingness to "head straight into the brawl" and he also managed to "turn the moment into his favour by showing 'what I have to put up with' from the Ukrainian leader."