Trump Praises Zelensky's Formal Black Suit During White House Meeting: A Diplomatic Fashion Statement

During their lunch in the Cabinet Room, Trump expressed admiration for the Ukrainian leader's attire.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky opted for a formal black suit instead of his customary military fatigues when meeting US President Donald Trump at the White House on Friday.

While dining in the Cabinet Room, Trump complimented Zelensky's outfit, remarking, "I think he looks beautiful in this jacket, yes, beautiful, I hope people notice. It's good, it's actually very stylish, I like it."

This sartorial change represents a significant departure from Zelensky's typical appearance, as he has consistently worn military-inspired clothing since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.

This isn't the first instance where Zelensky has modified his appearance for encounters with Trump. During their August meeting with European officials, he chose a black formal jacket, shirt, and trousers rather than his standard army greens, earning approval from the US President.

"You look fabulous in that suit," conservative reporter Brian Glenn told Zelensky, the same journalist who had previously criticized his attire during a February Oval Office visit. "I said the same thing," Trump noted, reminding Zelensky, "That's the one who attacked you last time."

"I remember that," Zelensky acknowledged.

Their initial meeting after Trump took office in February was considerably less friendly. Zelensky's black long-sleeved polo and military-style trousers displeased Trump and certain officials, who interpreted it as disrespectful toward the White House.

Trump sarcastically commented that Zelensky was "all dressed up today" upon seeing the Ukrainian leader.

At that time, Glenn questioned the Ukrainian president, "Why don't you wear a suit? You're in the highest office in this country, and you refuse to wear one. Do you even own a suit? Many Americans feel you're not respecting the dignity of this office."

Zelensky responded that he had committed to wearing military attire until peace was restored to Ukraine.

Zelensky's black jacket, created by Kyiv-based designer Viktor Anisimov, first appeared in April at Pope Francis's funeral, which he attended alongside First Lady Olena Zelenska. The same outfit has since been worn during meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in June and at the NATO summit in The Hague.

The meeting between Trump and Zelensky occurred just one day after the US President held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing war.