"Sorry, I'm not in a suit": Zelensky jokes about his quarrel with Trump

On Sunday, during his speech at the Taras Shevchenko Cultural Award ceremony, the Ukrainian leader allowed himself a touch of humour in reference to his altercation with Donald Trump at the end of February, in the Oval Office. 

Volodymyr Zelensky, who since the Russian invasion in 2022 has only worn outfits with a military tone, made the whole assembly laugh this Sunday after apologising for not opting for a suit. "Sorry, I'm not in a suit", joked Mr. Zelensky, referring to his disastrous visit to the White House. 

At the end of February, as soon as he arrived in the Oval Office, the Ukrainian president faced some criticism about his attire. The American president first: “He looks very smart today”. Then, journalist Brian Glenn, who disdainfully asked why he never wore a suit. To which Volodymyr Zelensky replied: “I will wear one once this war is over.” 

According to the media outlet Axios, which cites anonymous sources, Donald Trump was irritated at never seeing his Ukrainian counterpart in a suit, especially as on this occasion in Washington, Zelensky had been asked to make an effort.  

(MH with Manon Pierre - Source: 20 Minutes - Picture: ©picture alliance / ROPI | POU)