CONVERSATIONAL ANALYSIS OF DELL HYMES’ SPEAKING MODEL IN DONALD TRUMP AND VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY MEETING
Abstract
This study examines the communicative dynamics of the public meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky by integrating Conversation Analysis (CA) with Dell Hymes’ SPEAKING model. The research aims to uncover how power relations, diplomatic strategies, and communicative norms are constructed through real-time interaction. Using eight selected excerpts from the meeting, the analysis focuses on turn-taking, interruptions, preference organization, tone, footing, and the broader contextual elements that shape meaning. The findings reveal that Trump consistently dominates the discourse through extended turns, directive speech acts, and repeated interruptions, positioning himself as the controlling figure in the interaction. Zelensky, in contrast, employs politeness strategies, emotional appeal, and self-repair to maintain diplomatic face, though these attempts are frequently overshadowed by Trump’s assertive style. The SPEAKING model further demonstrates that the Setting and Participants’ roles create a performative atmosphere influenced by media presence, while the Key and Norms reflect a shift away from conventional diplomatic politeness toward confrontational framing. Overall, the study shows that diplomatic encounters are not merely informational exchanges but sites where political identities, power asymmetries, and strategic messaging are negotiated through interaction.
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