Body Language Expert Weighs In on Donald and Melania Trump’s Interaction at the US Army’s 250th Anniversary Parade #2

The First Lady joined her husband at a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating his 79th birthday and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary.

A body language expert analyzed Donald and Melania Trump’s interactions during the June 14 military parade, suggesting there was a strained dynamic between them based on their verbal and nonverbal cues.

Judi James, the body language expert, observed that Melania’s gestures hinted at underlying “tension,” pointing to small movements like adjusting her hair or subtle hand motions that may reflect inner unease.

However, her demeanor shifted when interacting with her husband, as she appeared more engaged and responsive. The couple also shared a rare public moment of affection when she briefly held his hand at the start of the event.

The expert pointed out that the Melania appeared more rigid than her husband, at times resembling the formal stance of the military figure standing on his other side.

Meanwhile, nationwide “No Kings” rallies protesting the parade and Donald’s use of the National Guard drew more attention than the event itself. The expert also suggested that the president may have been subtly minimizing his presence during the parade in response to criticism portraying him as a king or dictator.

Judi explained, “His jacket is unbuttoned which looks decidedly casual as he stands between a military audience and his air-fist ritual as he walks on looks like a tempered version of a victory salute to the crowds.”

The expert interpreted the president’s choice to wear his usual suit as a deliberate attempt to set himself apart from the military personnel around him. Donald intentionally maintaining a distinction between himself and the military personnel suggested that he showed up to honor them rather than to blend in with their ranks.

His relaxed posture while seated also gave the impression of a routine day at the office rather than a formal public spectacle. In contrast, the Judi observed that the first lady chose a more formal look, wearing a cream, double-breasted, tailored power suit that conveyed a polished and commanding presence.

“While Melania performs a wide, Duchenne smile, his smile is the lip-clamped, acknowledging version and his posture slumps as he rests his elbows on his thighs and splays his knees with his hands forming a downward steeple gesture,” added Judi.

As the parade progressed, the expert noted that the president’s enthusiasm appeared to grow. He stood in a fixed salute for extended periods and added a low air-punch with his left hand, an apparent attempt to show both respect and a more personal connection with the troops.

In addition to the body language analysis, a lip reading expert, Nicola Hickling, also offered insight into a light-hearted moment between the Trumps during the parade. As they watched the troops march by, Melania reportedly told her husband, “They’re good,” in praise of the performance.

In response, he joked, “I pushed my finger on one of them,” according Nicole. Melania Trump playfully corrected him, “You didn’t do that.” The moment, while seemingly a rebuttal, was not tense but rather a brief exchange of humor.

The couple also shared a few gentle gestures, including touches to her knee, suggesting that at some point, they were relaxed and enjoying each other’s company during the celebration, which marked both Donald’s 79th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.

The event featured a grand parade that capped off a day of celebrations honoring the U.S. Army’s legacy and the service of those who have defended the nation with courage and dedication. The festivities also looked ahead, marking a commitment to the next 250 years of military service and national pride.

In his speech, Donald pledged, “Tonight, we affirm with unwavering certainty that in the years ahead, and in every generation hence, whenever duty calls and whatever danger comes, the American Soldier will be there.”

The president spoke of the unwavering determination of American soldiers, describing their readiness to face danger head-on, overcome every obstacle, and emerge victorious — driven by both divine favor and the steadfast resolve of the U.S. Army.

Melania and her husband have often drawn attention during public appearances, and the June 14 parade was no exception. Just months earlier, on April 25, 2025, she and Donald Trump were seen departing the U.S. for Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis — a moment that quickly became a topic of online speculation.

Footage of the couple boarding the plane reignited “fake Melania” rumors, while her appearance at the funeral itself added to the buzz, with photos and videos from the trip widely shared and discussed.

Some netizens questioned whether the woman seen with the president was truly Melania, suggesting that her appearance and body language seemed different from what they had come to expect.

Theories about a “fake Melania” gained traction as clips and screenshots were shared across various platforms, fueling widespread debate. “Definitely not Melania; hair too light and no heels. Melania always wears heels!” one netizen shared.

Another person echoed the same sentiment, adamant that the real first lady would never wear flat shoes and would likely avoid traveling overseas with her husband for the entire trip. Someone else added, “It sure doesn’t look like her-the forehead and jawline seem different.”

Another commenter pointed out that the woman in the clip walked too loosely compared to Melania’s typically rigid and poised demeanor, further fueling theories that a stand-in was used.

Despite the online chatter leading up to their arrival, the Trumps eventually landed in Rome and attended the late Pontiff’s funeral on April 26. Melania appeared somber and elegant in a traditional black ensemble, complete with a long tailored coat and a black lace veil delicately draped over her head.

Her accessories included lace gloves and a subtle cross necklace, highlighting a respectful and timeless look appropriate for the occasion.

Donald was dressed in a navy blue suit paired with a crisp white shirt and a deep blue tie. His American flag pin was prominently displayed on his jacket lapel.

The couple maintained a composed and respectful demeanor throughout the ceremony, their serious expressions reflecting the gravity of the moment. Photographs captured Melania’s composed presence and Donald’s participation, with both appearing focused during the service.

Following their appearance, social media lit up with reactions, with netizens still convinced the First Lady did not look like herself. “Melania looks different. Is it really her?” one person shared in part. Another added, “What happened to her face?” while someone else wrote, “Her face looks like it’s melting off.”

In addition to attending the funeral, Donald and Melania made a private visit to St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects to Pope Francis. In an intimate moment, they stood before the late pontiff’s casket, flanked by two Swiss Guards in their traditional colorful uniforms.

In the image captured during their visit, Melania, standing beside her husband, maintained her funeral attire — her black coat, veil, and high-heeled shoes emphasizing a continued air of reverence.

Both appeared deep in thought as they paid tribute, the grandeur and intricate detail of the basilica’s architecture providing a powerful backdrop to the poignant scene.

Later during the three-hour Catholic Mass, the congregation, including numerous world leaders, was invited to exchange a “sign of peace” by shaking hands. A clip from the funeral service showed the U.S. President observing the ritual unfold around him but initially refraining from joining in.

According to forensic lip reader Nicola, Melania stepped in to prompt her husband. The lip reader told The Daily Mail that the first lady allegedly instructed her husband to begin shaking hands, encouraging him after he appeared hesitant.

She reportedly leaned in and whispered, “You should do it,” before repeating herself for emphasis. Following her urging, Donald reluctantly extended his hand to French president Emmanuel Macron. “Oh, alright,” he reportedly responded before participating in the traditional gesture of goodwill.

The day also held personal significance for Melania. In an Instagram post shared on April 27, she thanked supporters for their birthday wishes and reflected on attending the funeral on her special day.

“I had the honor of attending Pope Francis’ funeral, on this day, where I prayed for the healing of those who are suffering and for peace in the world,” she wrote.