Volodymyr Zelenskyy ‘apologised’ for ‘not being in a suit’ at an awards ceremony. His choice of attire was questioned by an American journalist during a meeting with US President Donald Trump and vice president JD Vance at the White House last month. Since the war with Russia broke out in February 2022, the 47-year-old has been favouring military-style clothing in khaki or black instead of formal suits. He appeared in a black ensemble featuring the country’s trident emblem, an outfit similar to the one he wore for his meeting with Trump and Vance, who would go on to have an argument with him on live TV. According to reports, Trump, too, felt ‘annoyed’ about the casual dress, particularly after US advisors suggested formal attire would show ‘more respect’ He greeted his Ukrainian counterpart with sarcasm about the latter’s clothing before launching into harsh criticism. Hours after the extraordinary exchange, Russia’s foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the US President and vice-president displayed a ‘miracle of restraint’ by ‘refraining from striking’ Zelenskiy.