People Call Zelensky ‘Shameful’ After He Refuses To Wear A Suit To The Pope’s Funeral

When you are part of a large event that is watched by millions, it is not unusual for some to be critical. One person who understands this is Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as he has drawn criticism for his choice of outfit at the funeral of Pope Francis.

Social media was buzzing with criticism and it came quickly after images showed up of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the funeral of Pope Francis. He was there with other world leaders, including US Pres. Donald Trump and many other dignitaries, including from Brazil, the UK, Italy, and Argentina.

He decided that he would not wear a suit and tie, as would be traditional for such a ceremony. Rather, he was dressed in all black, yet plain clothes at the funeral held at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.

Tens of thousands of people gathered for the funeral of Pope Francis, which was held at 10 AM local time. Pope Francis had died after suffering a stroke at the age of 88.

As you scan the crowd of those who were at the funeral, you may pick out some familiar faces. This includes Queen Mary of Denmark, and Prince William, who represented the British royal family.

Despite the fact that dignitaries came from around the world for this funeral, some were critical on social media because Zelenskyy opted to wear a black jacket, trousers, and shirt, and possibly even black sneakers rather than a suit and tie.

There were many opinions that came out quickly, including some that said:

“Zelensky not wearing a proper suit for the funeral is pretty childish.”

“Zelensky couldn’t even wear a suit to a funeral. Disgrace.”

And “Zelensky couldn’t even be bothered to wear a suit for the Pope’s funeral. What a shameful character.”

Zelenskyy has not worn a suit since martial law was announced in Ukraine in 2022. That was when Russia launched its invasion of the country. Since that time, the Ukrainian president has worn combat-style clothing, usually some form of black, khaki, or gray.

Some who were familiar with the situation said that Zelenskyy wearing military-style clothing is a sign that ‘Ukraine is at war and he am part of this fight.’

Even Zelenskyy has said that he would only wear a suit after Ukraine wins the war. In one documentary, Zelenskyy even has the blazer set aside that he plans on wearing when Ukraine is victorious.

He said: “It’s a symbol. It means that the war will be over soon, we will win soon, and we all will wear suits again.”

The Ukrainian president also met with US Pres. Donald Trump in the Oval Office wearing an all-black outfit that included a Trident, Ukraine’s coat of arms. He was questioned about his choice of outfits when meeting with the president at that time, and one correspondent asked why he didn’t wear a suit. They even asked if he owned a suit.

Zelenskyy said: “I will wear a costume after this war will finish.” The Ukrainian word for suit is ‘kostium’, which is likely what he meant.

Zelenskyy continued: “Maybe something like yours, yes. Maybe something better, I don’t know. Maybe something cheaper.”