Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on the 25th (local time) in The Hague, Netherlands. He appeared in a black jacket and shirt instead of his usual combat uniform.
President Zelensky dressed in a manner reminiscent of formal attire instead of the cargo pants and long-sleeve T-shirt he usually wore, but he skipped the tie and dress shoes. His appearance without a tie and in sneakers was not a traditional 'business suit,' but it is interpreted as a change considering the meeting with Trump.
After the meeting, both leaders positively assessed the atmosphere of the talks. President Trump noted, "It was a good meeting," adding, "This war is a very 'difficult' war, but President Zelensky is bravely fighting." He continued, "Now is a good time to end the war, and I will see if I can finish it by talking to Vladimir Putin, the Russian president."
However, there was some detectable difference in the remarks from both sides regarding discussions on the ceasefire issue. President Zelensky stated that they discussed everything concerning the war, including the ceasefire, but President Trump said they did not discuss the ceasefire.
Meanwhile, President Zelensky has garnered attention for adhering to military-style attire since the outbreak of the war. This outfit is seen as demonstrating his resolve to fight against Russia.
However, during the White House meeting with President Trump at the end of February this year, he appeared in the same attire, receiving criticism and mockery from some U.S. media and Trump’s aides for his 'casual appearance.' At that time, Zelensky responded, "I have formal wear. I will wear it after the war ends."
Reports have emerged suggesting that Trump’s aides advised Zelensky not to wear military-style clothing during his visit to the White House. Local U.S. media Axios, citing sources, reported that "one of the small factors that annoyed Trump was the fact that Zelensky did not wear a suit."