Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House on Monday, where he encountered a familiar face: right-wing reporter Brian Glenn. Glenn had previously criticized Zelensky's attire during a tense meeting with former President Donald Trump earlier this year. This time, however, the atmosphere and Zelensky's outfit were notably different.

“You look fabulous in that suit,” Glenn remarked, to which Trump added, “Isn’t that nice? That’s the one that attacked you last time.” Zelensky, dressed in a sharp black field jacket, black shirt, and black slacks, responded with a light-hearted jab: “You are in the same suit. I changed, you did not.”

This exchange may seem trivial, but it highlights a significant shift in Zelensky's approach since the February meeting, which was marked by heated exchanges. During that earlier encounter, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky, accusing him of being disrespectful and ungrateful. The argument centered on accusations that Zelensky was obstructing a peace agreement with Russia, while he expressed skepticism about negotiating with a country that had invaded Ukraine.

Zelensky has become known for his military-style attire, typically in army green or black, which he wears during national addresses to symbolize solidarity with Ukrainian troops. However, during his February visit, he opted for a more minimalist look, which did not sit well with Trump. The former president sarcastically remarked, “Oh, you’re all dressed up,” as he greeted Zelensky.

Before the meeting escalated into a confrontation, Glenn questioned Zelensky about his choice of clothing in the U.S. “I will wear a costume after this war will finish, yes,” Zelensky replied in English. “Maybe something like yours, yes, maybe something better. I don’t know, we will see. Maybe something cheaper. Thank you.”

Following that meeting, Zelensky quickly moved to mend relations, publicly thanking Trump and the U.S. for their support of Ukraine. He received advice from European leaders on how to better engage with Trump. In subsequent meetings, including at the Vatican and a NATO summit, Zelensky wore more formal attire.

Ahead of Monday's meeting, U.S. and Ukrainian officials discussed Zelensky's wardrobe, agreeing that he should avoid his usual military-style clothing. This strategy appears to have been effective, as Glenn adopted a more conciliatory tone, stating, “I apologize to you,” and complimenting Zelensky’s new look: “You look wonderful.”

The change in tone and attire reflects a broader effort to improve diplomatic relations between Ukraine and the U.S. amid ongoing challenges.