Zelenskyy wears military style suit at Trump summit

Zelenskyy adopts a formal suit with military symbolism for the Trump meeting, signaling careful image management.

Zelenskyy wears military style suit at Trump summit

Zelenskyy arrived wearing a black suit with military undertones ahead of a meeting with Donald Trump. The Ukrainian president has worn army-style outfits since the Kremlin invasion began, but this time the outfit was more formal. Trump greeted him and said "I love it" as he pointed to the attire. Zelenskyy replied, "It's the best I have." Fashion designer Elvira Gasanova said the look keeps military symbolism while stressing the president's authority. She noted that Zelenskyy personally decides what to wear, and that every detail matters in a wartime moment.

Zelenskyy's fashion choices have drawn praise and criticism. In February, during a White House visit, he wore a black polo with the Ukrainian coat of arms, sparking a quip from Trump about being dressed up. The episode shows how style operates as a soft power tool in high-stakes diplomacy, with outfits serving as signals to supporters at home and allies abroad.

The episode illustrates how clothing can carry political weight. Zelenskyy's choice to dress formally while retaining military cues blends respect for allies with a reminder of Ukraine's ongoing war. It also puts pressure on US audiences to read the image as a sign of unity and resolve rather than a fashion statement. The moment underscores the role of first impressions in diplomacy and the way style can shape perceptions of leadership.

Looking ahead, fashion becomes another instrument in a crowded field of messaging around war, alliance, and public support. The design commentary reminds us that image is not vanity but policy in a moment when every gesture is parsed for meaning, especially by domestic critics and international audiences.

Highlights

Attire can shape perception as much as policy