Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at the Oval Office on Monday in an outfit that looked sober yet sent a deep message. He wore a black jacket and dark collared shirt, a marked change from his traditional olive green military-style T-shirt. It was likely a response to criticism he faced during a visit to Washington in February, when US President Donald Trump mocked his outfit.
Zelenskyy has adopted military garb as a symbol of solidarity with the Ukrainian military since Russia’s sweeping invasion in 2022 and has rarely been seen out of it, whether addressing parliaments or visiting hospitals on the frontlines.
This time his look was still formal, but it had a new twist, with better coordination and polish, though he still did not wear a tie.
During the bilateral meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a reporter, Brian Glennabout, complimented his suit.
“First of all, President Zelensky, you look fabulous in that suit,” said the pro-Trump reporter who had criticised Zelenskyy after a meeting he had with Trump in February for not wearing a suit to the White House, prompting Trump to quip: “I said the same thing.” Zelenksyy, recognised the reporter as one who had criticised his choice of dress in February, responded, “and you’re in the same suit”.
Glenn on Monday told Zelensky he “apologized” for the pushback and said he looked “wonderful.” Zelenskyy showed up Monday wearing a coordinating dark shirt and jacket, though he did not wear a tie. He then asked Zelenskyy if he is open to holding elections in Ukraine after getting a peace deal.
Zelenskyy replied in the affirmative, saying, “Yes, of course, I am open to holding elections, but we have to conduct them in safe circumstances. We need security to hold elections.”
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