US President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, remarking, “Oh look, he’s all dressed up today!” as Zelenskyy, dressed in a black sweater, shook hands with him on Friday.
Turning to reporters, the US President said: “Oh look, he’s all dressed up today!”
Elon Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), shared a video on X featuring Trump and Zelenskyy inside the Oval Office.
In the clip, Trump can be heard telling Zelenskyy, “I like your clothing,” while Musk accompanied the post with a crying-laughing emoji, drawing attention on social media.
The timing of his visit coincides with the US’s pursuit of a rare earth material agreement with Ukraine, whilst the US President actively discusses ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict and engages in discussions with various Western leaders regarding the situation.
Trump indicated that his scheduled rare earth minerals agreement with Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday would facilitate American involvement in Ukraine. His stance towards the Ukrainian President appeared notably more conciliatory.
Previously, Prime Minister Kier Starmer met with Trump on Thursday, expressing his nation’s willingness to deploy military forces in support of peace efforts.
“I’m working closely with other European leaders on this, and I’m clear that the UK is ready to put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal, working together with our allies, because that is the only way that peace will last,” Starmer said.
Before this, French President Emmanuel Macron visited the White House, amidst increasing uncertainty about the war’s conclusion.
During their meeting, Macron stressed their mutual commitment to establishing peace, whilst cautioning against any resolution requiring Ukraine’s capitulation.
“This peace must not mean a surrender of Ukraine. It must not mean a ceasefire without guarantees. This peace must allow for Ukrainian sovereignty and allow Ukraine to negotiate with other stakeholders,” he added.