Later on Monday evening, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made headlines again by meeting Trump in the Oval Office. He was in his customary military-style garb, now a hallmark of his command since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started. His leading look was a chic blue coat with coordinated slacks. So naturally, this latest look sparked more discussions about his transformative wardrobe and what his choices through clothing mean for the Ukrainian people.
From the moment the invasion began in February 2022, Zelenskyy has favored militarized attire over traditional formalwear. He does this to express the utmost solidarity with the people of Ukraine who are living the horrors of war. That’s the costume he wore to the meeting. Far from a conventional formal suit, he wore a French-style army jacket in military canvas with four patch pockets.
Perhaps if Zelenskyy’s story is any indication—he’s been working on designing his new wardrobe since January, marking a departure from his previously-known image. Earlier this year, he stated, “I will wear [a suit] after the war is finished,” highlighting his commitment to remain connected to his country’s challenges. Conservative media personalities such as One America News’ Brian Glenn mocked Zelenskyy for refusing to don a suit for high-level diplomatic meetings. This was in response to their harsh comments.
During his first in-person meeting with Trump, Zelenskyy was showered with praise on his performance. Trump praised him, “You look good,” an assessment shared by the White House press pool. Glenn himself would later credit Zelenskyy’s fresh approach, saying bluntly, “You look fantastic.”
Viktor Anisimov, the mastermind behind Zelenskyyy’s new aesthetic, was on hand to shed some light. McCarthy claimed that the outfit wasn’t tailored specifically for Zelenskyy’s first visit to the White House. Rather he focused on the higher purpose of Zelenskyy’s sartorial decisions.
“It’s not about the suit – it’s about what happens to Ukraine.” – Viktor Anisimov
Zelenskyy’s decision to wear military-style attire serves a dual purpose: it honors the sacrifices of his citizens while reflecting his steadfast determination to lead Ukraine through its current crisis. World leaders are cleverly playing their hand, manipulating America’s ever-complex diplomatic “relationship.” At the same time, Zelenskyy’s evolving fashion choices have become an emblem of defiance and patriotic vigor.