American journalist Brian Glenn sparked controversy after questioning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s choice of clothing during his visit to the White House.
On Friday, February 28, Zelenskyy met with Donald Trump for a historic discussion. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Zelenskyy has consistently worn all-black, military-style attire to official events—including this meeting.
While his outfit was nothing unusual, some Americans criticized his decision not to wear a suit. Glenn, in particular, openly questioned whether the Ukrainian leader even owned one.
“Why don’t you wear a suit?” Glenn asked. “You’re at the highest level in this country’s office, and you refuse to wear a suit. Do you own a suit?”
Zelenskyy responded, “I will wear a suit after this war is over. Maybe something like yours. Maybe better, maybe cheaper.”
Following the exchange, Glenn addressed the issue further on Twitter.
“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 then shifted focus to U.S. financial support for Ukraine.
“The United States has given Ukraine over $120 billion (some estimate closer to $300 billion) in assistance. That’s hard-earned tax dollars from Americans, most of whom oppose this funding.”
Glenn continued, “President Zelenskyy has worn the green jumpsuit (or something similar) on every occasion when meeting other world leaders, all of whom dress respectfully for the occasion.
“For him to once again enter the highest office in the most powerful nation in the world, dressed as he did, reflects his inner disrespect for not only our country but also the President and the U.S. citizens who have made it possible for Ukraine to survive this long—financially speaking.”
Glenn also suggested that Zelenskyy’s attitude shifted following their exchange.
“Moments after my interaction with President Zelenskyy, his tone and demeanor changed when engaging with President Trump and VP JD Vance. His attire, in fact, reflected his attitude toward the negotiations,” he claimed.
OFFICIAL RESPONSE TO SUIT QUESTION
🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸I have extreme empathy for the people of Ukraine and all of those involved in this destructive war. The lives that have been lost are precious and that’s something a country can never get back. The war needs to…
— Brian Glenn (@brianglenntv) March 1, 2025
“So yes, you can judge a book by its cover.
“With that said, I pray for an end to this war and peace in that region.”
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene also weighed in, sharing a clip of Glenn’s question.
“I’m so proud of @brianglenntv for pointing out that Zelenskyy has so much disrespect for America that he can’t even wear a suit in the Oval Office when he comes to beg for money from our President!!” she wrote.
The debate over Zelenskyy’s attire continues, with opinions divided on whether his clothing choice is a symbol of resilience or a sign of disrespect.
