The ceremonial grandeur of the White House’s diplomatic receptions did little to mask the palpable tension between President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during their first official meeting on Tuesday. What would typically be a cordial affirmation of the longstanding alliance between neighboring nations instead highlighted growing rifts in what has historically been one of the world’s most stable bilateral relationships.
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The morning began with the traditional photo opportunity on the White House steps, a carefully choreographed diplomatic ritual that nonetheless revealed the underlying strain between the two leaders. Body language expert Beth Dawson noted the complex dynamic on display, observing that Carney appeared simultaneously “assertive” yet “apprehensive” in his interactions with Trump.
“The elbow touch shows that he wants to establish connection on equal terms. His expression is one of determination,” Dawson explained, analyzing Carney’s approach. “Carney is not passive, but he is also careful not to come across as overly forceful and he does seem slightly intimidated.”