When Trump agreed to a short reconcilliation meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky before Pope Francis’ Funeral, little did he know that he was walking into an ambush.
After Trump’s disgraceful behaviour on camera supported by his gang members in the Oval Office last month, this was to prove a sweet moment for the world.
As Trump and Zelensky moved towards a prepared seating area, Trump noticed three chairs had been prepared. As French President Macron entered the conversation Trump realised the importance of the third chair and insisted it was removed. Disappointing as this counter stroke was to Zelensky, Macron made it abundantly clear that he was there to support the Ukrainian leader by making a brotherly handshake while avoiding contact with Trump who had extended his hand. Presidents do not accidentally avoid shaking hands.
Moments later reinforcements arrived in the form of UK Prime Minister Starmer who fixed his gaze firmly on Zelensky as he spoke. Trump could be seen standing forlornly on the edge of the group understanding he had been emotionally pushed aside.
Once seated the body language of the two is worthy of comment. The dangers of body language are we will often see what we want to see. I might be the same, but my interpretation is this:
The seats are drawn very close together. Perhaps for reasons of clarity or security, but Zelensky appears comfortable.
Trump’s superior height fails to impress. Zelensky looks like a slim, fit boxer, chin down, unfazed, and ready for a fight. Trump looks old, bent over and frail.
Zelensky’s feet are placed firmly on the ground, his knees apart and hands held together relaxed and comfortable. Trump’s feet are drawn back under the chair showing discomfort and a readiness to retreat quickly.
Zelensky is forward on his seat, dominating the space. Trump is sat back in his chair. Zelensky’s eyes are serious. he holds Trump’s gaze without fear. Trump has nowhere to run and no gang to interrupt and ask prepared questions. One to one, the bully lost his confidence.
Zelensky’s dominance was further enhanced when he exited into the main public square. The crowd erupted into a polite but poignant, ripple of applause. This was not repeated when Trump appeared. Improperly dressed in a blue suit and tie, Trump appeared as welcome as an unpleasant odour at dinner.
Returning home, Trump posted his opinions on social media claiming his negotiations with Ukraine and Russia were making good progress. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Proposals presented by Ukraine and supported by European leaders are a much more serious and well considered foundation for progress. These proposals to end the war, were given to the US negotiating team on April 23rd in London when Ukraine and Europe rejected Trump’s disgusting Ukrainian surrender plan.
The Ukrainian/ European proposals include:
An immediate unconditional ceasefire before territorial agreements can be negotiated.
Ceasefire to be monitored by the US. (Something Trump rejected).
Ukraine offered “robust” security guarantees.
Ukraine fully compensated for damage caused by war. Moneys to be drawn from frozen Russian assets.
Earlier this month Trump had threatened to walk away from Ukraine if his seven-point ‘final offer’ was rejected before the end of this month. However, in comments on April 25th he said ‘those deadlines no longer apply.’ With his waning popularity at home and abroad, few people are paying attention to his bluster.
At the same time Trump’s envoy to Moscow, Steve Witcoff met Putin in Moscow. Witcoff walked into a meeting without support or his own interpreter. This spider must have enjoyed wrapping this insect in his web for future consumption.
Witcoff, like Trump and their MAGA team have built success on repeating lies until enough people believe them. This only works for so long. One can’t fool all the people all the time. Outside the USA, few are listening anymore.
Trump’s star is waning, but Zelensky’s, deservedly, - shines brighter than ever.
