During his visit to the White House on February 28th, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy found himself in the middle of a heated exchange over his attire.
The meeting, which involved US President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance, quickly took a turn after the leaders clashed in a tense debate.
Zelenskyy’s Casual Look Raises Eyebrows
As Zelenskyy arrived at the White House, President Trump made a point of complimenting his guest’s clothing choice.
The Ukrainian leader was dressed in a simple yet striking all-black ensemble — a buttoned-down shirt and chinos.
His shirt, adorned with a three-pronged spear, proudly displayed the Ukrainian coat of arms, symbolizing the country’s resilience.
However, the 47-year-old, who is leading his nation through a brutal war with Russia, notably opted out of wearing a formal suit, a standard dress code for heads of state in such settings.
Trump, noticing the difference, playfully remarked, “You’re all dressed up.”
Tensions Escalate in the Oval Office
What seemed like a friendly exchange quickly soured as the meeting progressed.
During a question-and-answer session with the media, one reporter directed a question to Zelenskyy, asking, “Why don’t you wear a suit? Do you own a suit?”
Zelenskyy, not missing a beat, retorted, “Do you have a problem?” The reporter’s response, “A lot of Americans have a problem with people who don’t respect the dress code of the Oval Office,” only seemed to fuel the tension.
The Ukrainian President, visibly irritated, shot back, “I will wear a (suit) costume after this war finishes, yes.
Maybe something like yours, yes, maybe something better.
I don’t know, we will see. Maybe something cheaper.
Thank you.”
Zelenskyy has previously expressed his decision to forgo formal attire during the ongoing Russian invasion, often appearing in military regalia as a symbol of solidarity with his people.
A Double Standard? Elon Musk’s Casual Attire Also Under Scrutiny
The debate over Zelenskyy’s clothing quickly sparked wider discussions, with critics pointing out that other prominent figures, including US cabinet member Elon Musk, have also been seen shunning traditional formal wear.
Musk, the billionaire behind the Department of Government Efficiency, frequently wears casual T-shirts and caps during his public appearances, even at the White House.