Zelensky’s Wardrobe Shift: From Controversy to Conciliation – A Tale of Two Meetings with Trump

During his visit to the White House on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged with a familiar figure – conservative media personality Brian Glenn, who had previously criticized Zelensky’s attire during a contentious meeting with former President Donald Trump earlier in the year.

This time, however, the interaction was markedly different. Glenn, who works for MAGA streaming startup Real America’s Voice, complimented Zelensky on his appearance, saying, “You look fabulous in that suit.” Trump also praised Zelensky’s new look, commenting, “Isn’t that nice? That’s the one that attacked you last time.”

Zelensky, wearing a sharp black field jacket, black shirt, and black trousers, responded to Glenn by stating, “You are in the same suit. I changed, you did not.”

The change in Zelensky’s wardrobe reflects a shift in tactics he has taken in recent months following the strained meeting in February, during which Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky for allegedly obstructing a peace agreement with Russia, while Zelensky expressed disbelief at the prospect of diplomacy with the invading country.

Before the heated argument in the Oval Office, the discussion centered around Zelensky’s clothing choice. Since the conflict began, Zelensky has become known for his military-style shirts, typically in army green or black, and cargo pants. He has worn this outfit during numerous televised national addresses and speeches throughout the conflict as a gesture of solidarity with Ukrainian troops.

However, when he appeared in his usual minimalist garb at the White House in February, Trump took notice and commented sarcastically, “Oh, you’re all dressed up.”

Trump’s comment was significant given his own attention to detail regarding his image, from his signature suit and tie to his fondness for all things gold (a color that now adorns the White House, including gold cherubs in the Oval Office and gold figurines on the mantle).

Before the meeting with Trump devolved into a shouting match, Zelensky was asked by Glenn why he did not wear a suit in the United States’ highest office. “I will wear a costume after this war will finish, yes,” Zelensky replied in English. “Maybe something like yours, yes, maybe something better. I don’t know, we will see. Maybe something cheaper. Thank you.”

The exchange took a turn for the worse from there. However, almost immediately afterward, Zelensky went into damage control mode, publicly thanking Trump and the United States for their support of Ukraine, and working to mend his relationship with the president.

Zelensky has been advised by some European leaders on how best to approach his counterpart, and many of these leaders were present at Monday’s White House meeting as a show of Western unity and support. During subsequent encounters with Trump this year, Zelensky opted for more formal clothing, including at the Vatican for Pope Francis’ funeral and at a NATO summit in the Netherlands.

Prior to Monday’s meeting, US and Ukrainian officials discussed Zelensky’s attire, with the understanding that he should not arrive wearing his usual military-style clothing. It appears their strategy has paid off, as even Glenn took a conciliatory tone after Trump praised Zelensky’s new look.

“I apologize to you,” Glenn said, referring back to their February interaction. “You look wonderful.”