Every year when G7 countries meet, all the heads of the states gather together in what is called a family photo. In the past, these images were a showcase of camaraderie and team work. The occasional humor used to be present in these pictures however, in the last few years, and the fascism and the nationalist movement has increased, these groups have lost the most valuable aspect of these gatherings- friendship.
The seemingly routine family photo from the 2025 G7 summit was recently released. Body language expert Judi James did a deep analysis of this photo and has released some deeper meaning.
Her interpretation however now shows a “grim” portrait of global politics. The traditional diplomacy has left the stage and has given way to tension, discomfort, and shifting power structures. The typically warm, unified snapshots from previous G7 summits are now a part of history. This year’s image tells a story that is dominated by unease and subtle rivalry.
James noted the striking lack of connection between leaders in the photo. There is no laughter or hints of camaraderie. All that is visible is emotional distance. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney are seen flanking U.S. President Donald Trump. Both have a vibe of “undertaker,” as explained by James. Or one can call it that of a bodyguard. But not to protect Trump but from him.
Their stiff postures and neutral expressions created a joyless frame around Trump. Both the leaders seemed reluctant to smile as if not pleased with the company they are in. Particularly, Starmer’s expression could be described as someone preparing for the doom.
“Netanyahu said killing Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, would ‘end the conflict’, in what would be another ominous escalation.”
No, Guardian. That’s not “escalation”. That’s a war crime, on top of Israel’s supreme international crime: launching a war of aggression. pic.twitter.com/JtansF4H4e
— Jonathan Cook (@Jonathan_K_Cook) June 17, 2025
The heavy weight of global issues such as war, diplomatic breakdown, trade wars and nuclear threats seemed to be holding the mood of the summit down.
Trump’s posture, however, is very artificial, as if he is trying really hard to project an image of authority. His squared torso, solid stance, and unyielding gaze seemed forced and deliberate. James read this as a pose of authority and confidence, which could also be read as a very tried and tested one as Trump is often seen trying to initiate his counterparts.
G7 was full of people with whom Donald Trump has recently waged trade or diplomatic war. He was in a room full of people who did not seem to be on his side. Therefore, this posture could be interpreted as a deliberate signal of strength or control in a room full of divided or uncertain counterparts.
BREAKING
Reuters: The People’s Republic of China, Japan, and Korea have reached an agreement to collectively respond to Trump’s tariffs.
MASSIVE IMPLICATIONS.
🇨🇳🇯🇵🇰🇷 pic.twitter.com/X3W91FVzsY
— Astraia Intel (@astraiaintel) March 31, 2025
While others were posing as the members of the group, Trump was trying to pose at the most powerful person in the room. This showcases how exactly Trump’s mentality works.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s body language offers a different layer of insight. The photo was captured mid-turn. His attempts to make eye contact or connect with Trump seem strained.
His posture can be described as awkward, and his facial expression is tight with discomfort. James reads this as a subtle but telling display as the indicative of underlying diplomatic friction. The tension shows the often-unspoken struggle for influence that is very common in such high-level meetings.
#WATCH | Borgo Egnazia: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni receives President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as he arrives for the 50th G7 Summit.
(Video Source: Reuters) pic.twitter.com/fZmokFQTuI
— ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2024
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also stands out. James highlights her relaxed, confident body language, describing her as a “star” in the group. Her composed demeanor sets her apart and shows her growing influence in international affairs. In the last few years, Meloni has solidified her place in global politics.
While others stand stiffly to show dominance, Meloni’s ease offers a rare moment of authenticity and poise. It also hints at a possible leadership evolution within the global power structure.
Judi James’ analysis of the 2025 G7 family photo reveals more than just a lack of smiles. It exposes a shifting global dynamic that is marked by discomfort, competition, and uncertain alliances.
