Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is currently in the spotlight not just for his military strategies but also for his style choices. At the recent NATO summit held in The Hague, Netherlands, Zelensky unveiled a fresh look — a black suit jacket with a shirt, minus the tie. This change occurred following criticisms during a previous White House meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
During that tense Oval Office meeting in February, a reporter, Bryan Glenn, questioned Zelensky on his attire for the 'highest level of office' in the country. Zelensky responded, 'I’ll wear a suit once the war ends, maybe like yours, or perhaps even better.'
Zelensky's Attire on International Visits
Next to Trump sat US Vice President JD Vance, who was seen laughing at the question. Since Russia's 2022 incursion into Ukraine, Zelensky has primarily been spotted in military attire — black or olive t-shirts, cargo pants, and combat boots — a unified show of support for Ukrainian soldiers. His international appearances have largely maintained this consistent style.
Change of Look at Pope Francis's Funeral
In April, during Pope Francis's funeral in Rome, Zelensky again met Trump, wearing a black field jacket and shirt, once more choosing not to wear a tie. The same look was maintained during meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London and at a dinner hosted by the Dutch King in The Hague.
ELLE, the renowned fashion magazine's Ukrainian edition, labeled Zelensky's evolved appearance as 'a new kind of visual diplomacy.' His unique style has sparked discussions on social media as well.
Following his dispute with Trump, Zelensky has made efforts to improve relations with the US. Recently, both countries have agreed on a critical minerals pact, establishing a joint investment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction.
