Putin disappointed over lack of aggression in Tucker Carlson interview

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed surprise and discontent regarding the interview dynamics with US television host Tucker Carlson, saying that he had expected sharper and more aggressive questioning.

Putin, known for his adept handling of interviews, had anticipated sharper questions, hoping for a more confrontational approach that would allow him to respond in kind.

During the half-hour exchange, Putin subjected Carlson to a history lecture, marking his first interview with an American journalist since Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago. 

Putin admitted to being surprised by Carlson's minimal interruptions, revealing that he did not derive full satisfaction from the interview.

The Kremlin defended Putin's decision to engage with Carlson, citing the host's departure from what they deemed "one-sided" reporting on the Ukraine conflict by many Western news outlets.

Meanwhile, body language expert Professor Erik Bucy analysed Putin's demeanour during the two-hour interview, describing the Russian leader as appearing "emaciated" and "uncomfortable in his own skin." 

Bucy pointed to Putin's twitching feet, fidgety hands, and sagging posture, suggesting potential physical discomfort or nervousness.

While another expert observed Putin's perceived dominance throughout the interview, Bucy argued that the Russian leader seemed uncharacteristically weak sitting next to the comfortable American TV pundit.

Discussing Putin's lack of comfort compared to Carlson, Bucy noted the Russian leader's apparent physical "limits," speculating that he may be "masking pain."