During a tense meeting on Friday (February 28) in the White House’s Oval Office, US President Donald Trump, 78, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, 47, and Vice President JD Vance, 40, to discuss Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. However, the conversation took an unexpected turn when Zelenskyy’s attire became a topic of discussion.
Before the meeting, Trump sarcastically remarked that the Ukrainian leader was “all dressed up” after he arrived in a casual outfit. The subject came up again when Brian Glenn, chief White House correspondent for the right-wing outlet Real America’s Voice, questioned Zelenskyy about his decision not to wear a suit.
The Ukrainian president, unfazed, responded, “I will wear a costume when this war is finished. Maybe something like yours. Maybe something better. Maybe something cheaper.”
According to The Daily Mail, a video from the event captured Trump subtly winking at Glenn—the same journalist who had provoked Zelenskyy. This seemingly small gesture ignited speculation, with many believing it was a coordinated effort between Trump, Glenn, and Vance.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Love these two! Trump winking and JD giving him a pat on the back.”
Another commented, “The @realDonaldTrump wink ****Plus, the @JDVance arm pat tells you this was their plan all along. Two bullies. When will the @GOP Senators stand up for the American way of life?”
Others pointed out a double standard, noting that nobody objected when Elon Musk appeared in the Oval Office in black clothing and a Make America Great Again cap.
“Reminder that if he’s scared of you, Trump will wink at you,” another post read.
Following the 139-minute press conference, Glenn took to X to address the controversy.
“I have extreme empathy for the people of Ukraine and all of those involved in this destructive war,” he wrote. “The lives that have been lost are precious and that’s something a country can never get back. The war needs to end.”
However, he also doubled down on his comments about Zelenskyy’s appearance, claiming that the Ukrainian leader’s outfit was a sign of “inner disrespect” not just for the United States but for the American people who have supported Ukraine’s fight.
“Moments after my exchange with President Zelenskyy, we began to hear a slightly different tone/mood from him when engaging with President Trump and VP JD Vance, as his attire in fact did begin to reflect his overall attitude towards the negotiations,” Glenn added.
“So yes, you can judge a book by its cover.”
Despite his critique, Glenn concluded by saying he prays for an end to the war and peace in the region.
According to Sky News, Trump’s team had advised Zelenskyy to dress more formally for the meeting, but he instead chose to wear all black.