“You’re all dressed up today,” President Trump greeted Ukraine President, Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to the Oval Office this past Friday. 

Zelensky traveled to Washington D.C on February 28th with the primary objective of securing a mineral-rights agreement aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s economic resilience and ongoing conflicts. Instead, Zelensky openly argued with President Trump and Vice President Vance, leaving the White House without signing the agreement.

Zelensky showed up to the White House wearing what some deemed as overly casual attire, a black military-style sweater displaying the Ukraine trident, and matching black cargo pants. This was not unusual for the Ukrainian leader, as wore similar clothing during meetings with former President Biden. 

For supporters, this look was a symbol of solidarity with his troops, reinforcing his image as a wartime leader who remains on the front lines, even while engaging in high-stakes diplomacy. 

Critics, however, saw the decision as disrespectful, arguing that a meeting at the White House warranted more formal attire.

“Why don’t you wear a suit? You’re in the highest level of this country’s office, and you refuse to wear a suit? I just want to see, do you own a suit?” Brian Glenn, a commentator for Real America’s Voice asked Zelensky. 

Zelensky responded by saying, “I will wear costume after this war will finish. Maybe something like yours, yes, maybe something better, I don’t know. We will see. Maybe something cheaper.”

“Kostyum” means “suit” in Ukrainian, implying that Zelenksy used the word “costume” in this context.

This is not the first time Zelensky has received criticism for his attire. In 2023, following his visit to the U.S senate, Vance made a post on the popular social media platform, X, writing, “Look I know [Senator Chuck] Schumer changed the dress code but letting someone in the senate chamber dressed like this really crosses the line.”

Vance continued his criticism during Zelensky’s most recent visit, reprimanding the Ukrainian President for not being “thankful” for U.S support.

Ultimately, the debate over Zelensky’s attire is a reflection of broader tensions about diplomacy, war, and the expectations placed on world leaders. While some view his choice as a symbol of support for his people and authenticity, others see it as a breach of decorum. But in the grand scheme of Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty and continued U.S support, the real question remains: Does what he wore matter more than what he came to say?