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White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt dodged questions about Elon Musk’s outfit choices when in the presence of President Donald Trump amid allegations of a double standard following criticism over Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s attire during last week’s Oval Office showdown.
Leavitt, during her press briefing on Wednesday, was quizzed on the issue by Fox News’ senior correspondent Peter Doocy.
“You know that some officials here were miffed that Zelensky showed up last week without a suit for his meeting in the Oval Office. But Elon Musk never wears a suit,” said Doocy.
While there isn’t an official White House dress code — a level of formality is typical among world leaders and dignitaries.
However, Zelensky has refused to wear a suit — instead opting for a sombre military ensemble — in solidarity with his countrymen currently battling Russian forces.
Zelenksy has been pictured with various world leaders wearing almost fatigue-like tactical clothing since the invasion began in February 2022.
Leavitt quickly interjected with a wide-brimmed smile, stating: “He did last night,” in reference to Musk’s appearance during Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night.
“So what is the dress code?” Doocy pressed.
Leavitt was visibly caught out by the question and appeared to be stifling a laugh.
“Well, Elon Musk wore a suit last night. I’m sure you saw it,” she repeated.
Doocy pushed Leavitt further on the suit question, asking if Musk had been “spooked” after Zelensky was dramatically escorted from the White House following the explosive meeting with Trump, and Vice President J.D. Vance.
“No, I don’t think so. I’m just pointing out that he did wear a suit last night and I think the president liked that very much and he looked great,” Leavitt continued before swiftly moving on to discuss Trump’s approval ratings.
During his appearance at Trump’s first cabinet meeting, Musk sported a casual look that consisted of jeans, a T-shirt that read “Tech Support,” and a Make America Great Again (MAGA) baseball cap.
Last Friday, Trump, Vance, and the Ukrainian leader’s discussion, which sought to lay out the terms for a ceasefire with Russia and a minerals deal, escalated into a full-blown shouting match in front of the world’s press.
“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?,” Zelensky was asked by Brian Glenn, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s boyfriend.
“A lot of Americans have problems with you not respecting the dignity of this office,” he continued.
Zelensky shot back saying he would wear a suit when the war was over. “Maybe something like yours, maybe something better, maybe something cheaper,” he added.
Trump scolded Zelensky telling him: “Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel. We’re trying to solve a problem. Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel.”
Vance jibed at the Ukrainian leader, stating: “Have you said ‘thank you’ once?”
Zelenksy, who maintained a calm and collected demeanor throughout, was abruptly escorted from the premises.
The leader has since announced his regret over the fiery meeting, revealing he was ready to resolve matters with the U.S. and establish a peace deal.
The Independent contacted The White House for comment.
