A body language expert has analysed the initial handshake between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, claiming that Xi emerged as the winner in the power dynamics of their encounter. The meeting took place outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on May 14, 2026, as part of high-stakes bilateral talks covering tense issues including Taiwan, trade, and the Iran war.
Expert Analysis of the Handshake
Louise Mahler, a body language expert, observed that both leaders displayed readiness to engage, with eyes locked on each other. However, she noted that Trump quickly felt the need to dominate by patting Xi's hand with his second hand. Xi did not release his grip, and after a brief exchange, Trump patted Xi's hand a second time. Mahler stated: 'Xi holds his position and eventually instigates the time to release.' She added that while walking, Trump placed his arm on Xi's back, guiding him forward. Although these gestures can be seen as friendly, the second hand pat is often interpreted as a condescending power move. Mahler concluded: 'If life is a competition, for me, Xi won.'
High-Stakes Talks
The two leaders engaged in two-hour-long talks on Thursday, with the whole world watching. Xi hailed US-China relations as the world's 'most important,' while Trump described the talks as 'extremely positive.' In an interview with Fox News recorded in Beijing, Trump called Xi 'a warm person.' During his opening statements, Trump also said, 'It's an honour to be your friend,' before promising that the US-China relationship 'is going to be better than ever before.'
Power Dynamics on Display
The initial greeting highlighted the status of the bilateral relationship. Trump's handshakes and pats on Xi's hand were seen as attempts to exert dominance, but according to Mahler, Xi's steady stance and control over the release time indicated a stronger position. The expert's analysis suggests that despite Trump's efforts, Xi maintained the upper hand in this subtle exchange.
