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Zelensky's choice of casual clothing reflects his stance during the conflict, symbolizing resilience, commitment and connection with Ukrainian soldiers and citizens.
The meeting between Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump in the Oval Office drew attention for reasons beyond politics. The Ukrainian president's lack of formal attire raised questions.
A correspondent for the conservative network Real America's Voice asked: “Why don't you wear a suit??” The question generated smiles, but raised a debate about clothing and identity.
Zelensky’s attire, often made up of dark tactical gear or the iconic olive green, is a choice that goes beyond fashion. It represents a historical moment in Ukraine and a cultural transformation driven by the war.
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To understand this change, Ukrainian journalist Illia Ponomarenko, who covered the conflict and wrote about the war for the Kyiv Post and The Kyiv Independent, explains the meaning behind the Ukrainian president's attire.
A visual message against formality
Zelensky’s choice of tactical clothing carries a meaning. Ponomarenko explains that the president wants to convey a message of closeness to the people. At meetings with world leaders, his attire suggests that the priority is not a formality, but rather the urgent needs of the country.
"Clothes are more than clothes. They are part of a culture of people who are involved in this war.”, says Ponomarenko. He believes that Zelensky’s attire represents the ordinary citizen involved in the war effort, reinforcing the contrast between Ukrainian reality and the bureaucracy of international politics.
Even when meeting kings and world leaders, Zelenskyy maintains a modest style. This approach is seen as an attempt to remind everyone about the ongoing war and the need for support. For the Ukrainian president, attire is a form of visual diplomacy.
The evolution of the garment industry in Ukraine
The war has impacted many sectors in Ukraine, including the fashion industry. Before the conflict, production of military clothing was limited. With the onset of the Russian invasion, the demand for tactical equipment grew rapidly. Specialized Ukrainian companies emerged to meet this need.
Over time, national brands have sought to produce better quality equipment. Companies such as M-TAC and Talan have started to manufacture tactical clothing and rugged boots. Many of the founders of these brands are veterans who saw the need for gear specifically for the combat environment.
Today, the Ukrainian tactical clothing industry serves not only soldiers but also civilians. The growth of this sector reflects a cultural shift in Ukraine, where tactical clothing has become part of the national identity.
The Cultural Impact of Military Clothing in Ukraine
Before 2014, wearing military clothing in Ukraine had a different meaning. According to Ponomarenko, the army was viewed negatively due to its lack of resources and reputation.
"A friend of mine who works as a war photographer in Ukraine told me that it was somewhat unpopular to wear tactical gear in civilian life before 2014, but that has changed since the war. How did the average Ukrainian view this style of clothing before this conflict?“, Ponomarenko asked.
This changed with the invasion of Crimea. The army underwent reforms and gained greater recognition. The military uniform ceased to be a symbol of neglect and began to represent sacrifice and the fight for independence.
Today, military clothing has a new meaning. Ukrainians view the armed forces as one of the most trusted institutions in the country. Clothing associated with the military is respected.
Dress code rules in Ukrainian society
Despite the popularity of tactical clothing, there is an informal code of conduct regarding its use. Ponomarenko explains that civilians avoid camouflage, as this pattern is reserved for military personnel. If you are not a soldier, you should not wear camouflage. It would be seen as disrespectful.
Colors such as olive green, black and navy blue are common, but camouflage is a symbol exclusive to combatants. This detail reflects the importance of visual identity within the context of war.
The relationship between clothing and diplomacy
During the meeting with Trump, Zelensky wore a black tactical outfit with the Ukrainian coat of arms. To an ordinary onlooker, it might have looked like just sportswear. However, Ponomarenko stressed that the outfit was similar to what soldiers and journalists wear in war zones.
The Ukrainian trident, featured on Zelensky’s attire, also carries strong symbolism. The emblem dates back to Prince Volodymyr the Great, who was responsible for introducing Christianity to the region over a thousand years ago. It represents Ukraine’s national identity and historical continuity.
The impact of clothing abroad
The war has brought changes to the rules of mobility in Ukraine. Men of military age cannot leave the country without special permission. Those who are allowed to do so avoid displaying their special lifestyle on social media to avoid creating resentment among those who remain.
In this context, Zelensky’s choice of tactical clothing on international trips has a purpose. He seeks to avoid the image of a leader who is out of touch with the reality of his people.
According to Ponomarenko, Ukraine values equality. People don’t care about status, but rather about collective effort. Wearing a designer suit can be seen as a sign of disconnection from the population.
A message to the world
In addition to sending a message to Ukrainians, Zelensky’s attire is also an indirect provocation to global leaders. His style raises a question: “Are you willing to set aside formalities and discuss pressing issues?”
The Ukrainian president seeks to emphasize that his country is still facing a war and that, for him, the priority is to secure international support. His outfit has become a symbol of this struggle.
Zelensky’s attire is more of a personal choice. It reflects the reality of Ukraine, the transformation of the tactical clothing industry and the changing perception of the army by the Ukrainian people.
By eschewing suits and adopting a military style, he sends a clear message. His goal is not to impress with formality, but to remind the world that his country is still at war.
The attire he wears to diplomatic meetings is a silent reminder that the struggle continues. As long as Ukraine is in conflict, Zelensky’s clothes will continue to carry a deeper meaning than any dress code could suggest.
With information Politico.
I admire this man for his courage, faith and hope in a better world. He defends his people with all his strength. Keep going and with faith you will win.
The brave Ukrainian people face one of the largest and most powerful armies in the world: the sadistic Russian bear! They will suffer a lot of shame, but they will be able to say: “We are a warrior nation and we love this land”. Congratulations, Ukraine!!
I am very surprised by the position of the leader of the so-called land of FREEDOM, who shamelessly supports Putin, taking by force what does not belong to him. And the USA takes advantage of the fragility of UKRAINE to also take half of its strategic reserves. May the government and the UKRAINIAN people be successful in their defense, and manage to destabilize the corrupt people who govern Russia, and may they help the Russian people to be free from these beings.