During a recent visit to the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky donned a suit as he implored President Trump for U.S. support amid his ongoing struggle with Russia. The ambiance was almost somber, with Zelensky’s choice of all black resembling that of someone attending a funeral, perhaps echoing the dire circumstances of the ongoing conflict.
The shift in attire signals a departure from Zelensky’s earlier less formal appearances, particularly when he used casual garb to engage with Biden and appeal for financial aid. It seems Zelensky is aware that such informal strategies no longer grant him the same favorable responses from U.S. leaders.
Interestingly, his outfit resembled one he wore during an August visit, eliciting comparisons between his approaches to diplomacy and his wardrobe choices. In August, amidst the biting critiques from U.S. commentators, he seemed more prepared for an upscale event than the serious consultations at hand.
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Recall that his first rendezvous with Trump in February had come under scrutiny when a commentator remarked on his informal attire at a moment that arguably required gravitas. This incident underscores a notable evolution in his presentation to U.S. leaders, not lost on observers: “Doesn’t he look fabulous?” was one way to put it.
“That’s the one who attacked you last time,” Trump chimed, a reminder of their fraught history.
Given the current political climate, Glenn’s remarks extended beyond fashion; they hinted at deeper concerns regarding the state of democracy in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war. Earlier this year, Trump labeled Zelensky as a “Dictator without Elections,” criticizing his reliance on American financial support for a conflict he believes could have been avoided altogether.
Watch the full exchange from Zelensky’s August visit below:
Glenn: President Zelensky, you look fabulous in that suit. You look good.
Trump: I said the same thing!
Glenn: Upon peace, God willing, will you hold elections in your country?
Zelensky: Yes, of course. We are open for elections, but we need to consider safety and the current circumstances. We have to work through parliament because, during war, elections cannot be held. We need a truce for safe, legal democratic elections to be possible.
Trump: So, you say, during the war, you can’t have elections? If we happen to be in a war, then no more elections? Oh, that’s interesting. I wonder what story the media will craft around that.
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