Zelensky appeared in a suit for the first time in years of full-scale war: video
25 June 11:30
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at the NATO summit in The Hague wearing a classic dark suit for the first time since the start of the full-scale war. This is evidenced by footage released on the eve of the summit, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
On Tuesday, June 25, the head of state chose a restrained business look: a dark jacket, pants and a black shirt without a tie.
This choice of clothing was a marked change from the traditional military style in which Zelenskyy has appeared in public since the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Footage released before and during the summit showed the president in the new look alongside NATO leaders.
His appearance sparked a lively discussion in the media and on social media, as this is Zelenskyy’s first official international appearance in a business suit in 3.5 years of full-scale war
Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has mostly stuck to military style of dress. However, in May 2025, during a visit to Berlin, Zelenskyy wore a black suit, albeit not a classic one.
He chose a similar outfit to participate in ceremonies, including the funeral of Pope Francis and the inauguration of Pope Leo.
Discussion of Zelenskyy’s style in the media and politics
The president’s clothes have repeatedly become a topic of discussion in the media, the expert community, and even political circles. The loudest resonance was caused by the situation in February this year during his visit to the United States. Zelenskyy arrived at the White House wearing a black suit with elements of Ukrainian symbols, contrary to the wishes of the American side, which expected a traditional business suit.
According to Axios, even before meeting with the Ukrainian leader, then-U.S. President Donald Trump was irritated by his style. Trump’s advisers reportedly asked Zelenskyy’s team to adhere to the dress code, but the Ukrainian president chose a more symbolic outfit.
After the conversation, an RSBN journalist remarked on Zelenskyy’s lack of a business suit, to which he replied:
“I will wear it when the war is over. Maybe it will be like yours. Maybe it will be better. Maybe it will be cheaper. We’ll see!”
Today Zelensky and Trump meet again
Against the backdrop of these events, Zelenskyy’s current appearance in a classic suit at the NATO summit in The Hague was a notable change.
Especially given that the Ukrainian president is expected to meet with Donald Trump today.
