Ukrainian President Zelenskyy faces criticism for not wearing a suit to Pope Francis’ funeral, with viewers calling it ‘shameful.’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faced criticism for his clothing choice at Pope Francis’ funeral.
Attending alongside world leaders like Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron, Zelenskyy opted for a black jacket, trousers, and sneakers instead of a formal suit.
This decision did not sit well with some social media users, who called his appearance “shameful.”
The funeral of Pope Francis
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died after suffering a stroke, and his funeral took place at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
Thousands of mourners gathered to honor the pope, who was known for his dedication to peace and compassion. The event attracted many prominent figures, including royalty and heads of state from various countries.
Zelenskyy’s presence at the funeral was significant, especially considering the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, his choice of attire quickly became a topic of discussion online.
Reason President Zelensky is not wearing a suit to Pope Francis’ funeral
Zelenskyy’s clothing choices have often reflected the current situation in Ukraine.
Since the start of the war with Russia, he has primarily worn military-style clothing. This includes cargo pants, sweatshirts, and shirts with Ukrainian symbols.
His decision not to wear a suit at the funeral is part of a larger message he wants to convey: that Ukraine is still at war.
Designer Elvira Gasanova, who creates some of Zelenskyy’s clothing, explained that wearing military-style outfits sends a signal about the ongoing conflict.
“When world leaders see Zelenskyy in military style, it is a signal — ‘Ukraine is at war and I am part of this fight,’” Elvira Gasanova, designer of the Damirli brand that creates some of Zelenskyy’s signature clothing, said.
“A persistent call to return to the suit is a de facto demand to return to the usual format of political dialogue, which means ‘enough of war, sit down at the negotiating table,’” Gasanova said.
Zelenskyy himself has stated that he will only wear a suit again after Ukraine wins the war.
“It’s a symbol. It means that the war will be over soon, we will win soon, and we all will wear suits again,” Zelenskyy said.
A Symbol of Ongoing Conflict
Zelenskyy has made it clear that his clothing choices are intentional. In a documentary, he mentioned that he has a blazer ready to wear once Ukraine achieves victory.
This reflects his commitment to the fight and serves as a reminder of the war’s impact on his country.
Zelenskyy believes that wearing formal clothing would imply a return to normalcy, which is not the case while the war continues.
In a recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy was questioned about why he does not wear a suit.
Brian Glenn, the chief White House correspondent for Real America’s Voice TV channel, asked: “Why don’t you wear a suit? You’re at the highest level in this country’s office, and you refuse to wear a suit. Do you own a suit?”
He responded by saying he would wear one after the war ends, emphasizing his focus on the ongoing struggle for Ukraine’s freedom.
In response, Zelenskyy said: “I will wear a costume after this war will finish.” He likely misspoke, as the Ukrainian word for suit is “kostium.”
“Maybe something like yours, yes. Or something better, I don’t know,” Zelenskyy continued. “Maybe something cheaper.”
Social media backlash over Zelenskyy’s outfit
Many critics took to social media to express their disappointment with Zelenskyy’s outfit.
Some users pointed out that he was the only world leader not wearing a suit.
One user said: The last person who would’ve criticised him for that was Pope Francis.
The second user wrote: I believe he vowed to wear combat uniform until the war is over. Besides zelenskyy may be a man without a suit but Trump is a suit without a man.
The third user added: Well Trump and Starmer might be wearing suits and Zelensky isn’t. I know who I admire out of the three of them.
The fourth user commented: His country is at war, I think the last thing on his mind is wearing a suit .
Another user said: I guess you forgot the part” Come as you Are”. Maybe you should be more concerned about where you’re going.
Someone added: Seriously commenting why he’s not wearing a suit,it’s not a fashion show ,who’s got best outfit he’s paying respect to the pope at his funeral I for 1 think he looks smart it doesn’t matter !!!!!