During his recent UK state visit, former U.S. President Donald Trump was seated beside Princess Kate Middleton at a state banquet hosted by the Royal Family. The interaction between the two drew notable public attention, especially after a body language expert offered a surprising interpretation of their dynamic.
Trump and his wife Melania were warmly welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. This marked Trump’s second state visit to the UK, making him the first U.S. president in modern history to receive such an invitation twice. His visit also included meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during which they unveiled a major tech and investment agreement.
One of the more talked-about moments from the banquet came from Trump’s seating arrangement. He was placed next to Princess Kate, known for her poised public presence. According to body language expert Bruce Durham, their interaction suggested an unusual power dynamic.
Durham claimed Kate appeared “regal” and confidently in control of the conversation. He described her as looking at Trump “like a childish, impish-type comment had been made,” implying she may have gently challenged him. Trump, usually perceived as the dominant figure in most interactions, was said to show signs of deference.
The expert pointed to Trump’s raised shoulders and retracted head as signs of submission in the moment, suggesting that Kate may have held the social upper hand. While this interpretation is subjective, it adds intrigue to their public interaction during the event.
Trump himself seemed highly complimentary of the Princess of Wales. He praised her during his remarks, saying she appeared “radiant,” “healthy,” and “beautiful,” and described it as a “great honour” to be in her company. The encounter highlighted both diplomacy and mutual admiration between figures from two of the world’s most watched families.