Crowds are probably screened and/or shit scared to do otherwise. Wouldn't surprise me if there are screens around which flash "applause" up every now and then.
Can't see anything happening, I'm not convinced he's particularly psychotic or stupid. He's testing how far he can go and is playing Trump far too easily. I'm sure he's well aware of his militaries shortcomings but is getting global news and making them far bigger than they really are.