Zelensky Responds to White House Tension with Irony Over Military Attire
The Ukrainian president humorously addressed criticism of his clothing during a contentious meeting with Trump that led to the suspension of U.S. military aid.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an ironic remark during a cultural ceremony in Kyiv, referencing criticism of his military attire during a recent White House visit.
- The February meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance turned heated, with Trump expressing frustration over Zelensky’s refusal to wear a suit as requested.
- A conservative journalist questioned Zelensky's choice of clothing, prompting the Ukrainian leader to respond that he would wear a suit once the war with Russia ends.
- The altercation reportedly led to the suspension of U.S. military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, marking a significant shift in American policy under Trump.
- Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov described the diplomatic fallout as unprecedented, comparing it to ancient and medieval practices of humiliating visiting leaders.