### Zelenskyy's Wardrobe Shift: A Symbolic Change at the NATO Summit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made headlines at the recent NATO Summit by opting for a more formal attire, marking a significant departure from his usual military-style clothing. This change comes in the wake of criticism he faced during a previous meeting with Donald Trump, where his casual dress was perceived as inappropriate. Zelenskyy's new look—a blazer with military touches, dress trousers, and a shirt—has sparked discussions about the symbolism of his attire in the context of Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia and his leadership style during wartime [https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/nato-summit-volodymyr-zelenskyy-suit-talking-point-13900631.html]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Background Context** - Zelenskyy's attire has been a topic of discussion since the onset of the war with Russia in 2022. - His previous choice of clothing during a meeting with Trump in February 2025 drew significant media attention and criticism [https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/ukraine-zelenskyy-formal-dress-nato-summit-trump-shouting-match-oval-office-2746161-2025-06-25]. 2. **Wardrobe Change Analysis** - The switch to a formal outfit at the NATO Summit is seen as a strategic move to convey seriousness and professionalism [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/zelensky-opts-for-more-formal-calibrated-wardrobe-ahead-of-trump-meeting]. - This change reflects a broader narrative of unity with the Ukrainian military while also adapting to diplomatic expectations [https://www.tbsnews.net/world/zelenskiy-opts-more-formal-calibrated-wardrobe-ahead-trump-meeting-1173921]. 3. **Public and Media Reaction** - Social media and news outlets have reacted with a mix of humor and admiration, with some commentators jokingly suggesting that "hell must've frozen over" due to his formal attire [https://in.mashable.com/culture/96231/zelenskyy-gets-internets-attention-after-wearing-a-suit-to-nato-summit-hell-mustve-frozen-over]. - The change has been noted as a significant moment in his public image, especially given the context of his previous attire during high-stakes meetings [https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/suit-alert-zelenskyy-turns-heads-at-nato-1750842102.html]. ### Summary of Findings **Zelenskyy's wardrobe shift at the NATO Summit signifies a calculated response to previous criticisms and a desire to project a more formal image in international diplomacy.** 1. **Background Context**: Zelenskyy's clothing choices have been scrutinized since the war began, particularly during his meeting with Trump [https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/ukraine-zelenskyy-formal-dress-nato-summit-trump-shouting-match-oval-office-2746161-2025-06-25]. 2. **Wardrobe Change Analysis**: His new formal attire aims to balance military solidarity with diplomatic decorum [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/zelensky-opts-for-more-formal-calibrated-wardrobe-ahead-of-trump-meeting]. 3. **Public and Media Reaction**: The public's response has been largely positive, with humor and admiration for the change [https://in.mashable.com/culture/96231/zelenskyy-gets-internets-attention-after-wearing-a-suit-to-nato-summit-hell-mustve-frozen-over]. This strategic shift in attire not only reflects Zelenskyy's adaptability as a leader but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.