'I think he looks beautiful': Trump gushes over Zelensky’s outfit at White House lunch

WASHINGTON, DC: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky swapped his signature military fatigues for a sharply tailored black suit during his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Friday, October 17.

During a lunch held in the Cabinet Room, Trump couldn’t resist commenting on Zelensky’s new look, saying, “I think he looks beautiful in this jacket, yes, beautiful, I hope people notice. It’s good, it’s actually very stylish, I like it."

The lighthearted exchange came just a day after the POTUS' phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Zelensky’s black suit catches Trump’s eye

Volodymyr Zelensky’s polished appearance marked a noticeable departure from his typical military-inspired wardrobe, which had become symbolic of Ukraine’s resilience since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

Trump’s unexpected compliment, admiring the Ukrainian leader’s formal attire, quickly drew smiles around the room.

Not the first time Zelensky suited up for Trump

This isn’t the first time Volodymyr Zelensky has adjusted his style for meetings with Donald Trump. In August, when both leaders met alongside European officials, the Ukrainian president again ditched his olive greens for a sleek black suit, earning another nod of approval from Trump.

“You look fabulous in that suit,” conservative reporter Brian Glenn told Zelensky at the time. Glenn had previously criticized him during a February Oval Office visit for not dressing formally. Trump chimed in then as well, laughing, “That’s the one who attacked you last time.” Zelensky smiled, replying, “I remember that.”

Trump’s first impression of Zelensky after returning to office wasn’t so warm

Their initial meeting after Donald Trump’s return to office earlier this year was far less friendly. Zelensky’s casual long-sleeved polo and military-style pants reportedly irked Trump and other officials, who viewed the outfit as too informal for the White House.

Trump even sarcastically said that Zelensky was "all dressed up today" as soon as he saw the Ukrainian leader.

At the time, Glenn questioned him, “Why don’t you wear a suit? You’re in the highest office in this country, and you refuse to wear one. Do you even own a suit?”

Zelensky defended his decision, explaining that he had vowed to wear military clothing until peace was restored in Ukraine.

The black jacket that keeps making global cameos

Volodymyr Zelensky’s black jacket, crafted by Kyiv-based designer Viktor Anisimov, has made several appearances this year. He first wore it in April at Pope Francis’ funeral, alongside Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska, and later during meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and at the NATO summit in The Hague.

The White House lunch between the two leaders came amid high-stakes discussions surrounding military aid and peace negotiations, underscoring that even in moments of global tension, fashion can make a powerful statement.