US President Donald Trump held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and seven European leaders at the White House on the 18th to discuss issues such as ending the Russo-Ukrainian War and post-war peace. Unlike their previous clash in February, this time Zelensky not only changed his tune and donned formal attire, but also delivered 11 thank yous in a short 4.5-minute speech. European leaders also expressed their gratitude and praise to Trump, much to the US president's delight. The heated exchange between Trump and Zelensky in the White House in February is still fresh in people's minds. At the time, Vice President J.D. Vance scolded Zelensky for not saying"thank you" once upon entering the White House, and reporters criticized him for not wearing formal attire. During the meeting on the 18th, Zelensky learned his lesson. Not only did he wear formal attire, much to the delight of Trump and the reporters who criticized his attire, but he also said"thank you" 11 times in a mere 4:30 minute speech, seemingly addressing Vance's February comments.
JUST IN: President Trump comments on Zelensky's attire as he arrives at the White House.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 18, 2025
"I don't believe it... I love it!"
The journalist who previously asked Zelensky,"Why don't you wear a suit?" during his last White House visit now compliments Zelensky's attire.
Zelensky replied,"I see you're still wearing that same suit." — We The Media (@WeTheMedia17) August 18, 2025
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) noted that Zelensky wore a collared shirt and a blazer, part of a collection of pieces from the Ukrainian brand Viktoranisimov that he has been spotted wearing this year. He also wore trousers and combat boots, all in Zelensky's favorite color of black.
Jacob Neiheisel, a political science professor at the University at Buffalo, believes Zelensky has demonstrated a willingness to compromise slightly with tradition for the sake of the nation. Neiheisel likened the suit to former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill's"siren suits," which could be quickly donned if an air raid alarm sounded. They were quick to don and doff while maintaining a respectable appearance in an emergency.
In addition, The Washington Post reported that not only did Zelensky show good courtesy, but European leaders also thanked Trump for inviting everyone to the White House for talks and praised his efforts to end the Russo-Ukrainian war. All of this made Trump very satisfied and happy.
