How Appearances and Alliances Shape the Ukrainian Conflict

In a meeting at the Oval Office, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. President Donald Trump. The meeting occurred amidst ongoing negotiations related to the Russian war in Ukraine.

The story of "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupery offers an interesting parallel. The narrator describes the little prince's home planet as being incredibly small, "scarcely any larger than a house." This planet was an asteroid discovered by a Turkish astronomer in the 20th century.

The astronomer's initial report of his discovery was dismissed by an international conference due to his traditional Turkish attire. However, when he presented himself again, this time in European clothing, he was met with applause. The narrator observes, "Grown-ups are like that."

This raises the question of whether a change in attire played a role for President Zelensky, who wore a black suit jacket for his meeting with President Trump. Since the Russian invasion, Zelensky has primarily been seen in collarless shirts. Trump, who had previously promised to help ensure Ukraine's security, has since softened his stance on demanding an immediate cease-fire from Russia. European leaders present at the summit praised Trump, possibly to maintain his support.

The saying "Clothes make the man" comes to mind. Here, a man in an expensive suit and a red tie is working to secure a deal. One wonders how seriously he is considering Ukraine's future.

In the story, the little prince encounters a conceited man who is obsessed with appearances and compliments. The little prince questions the man's self-importance, asking, "I admire you … but what is there in that to interest you so much?"

Perhaps the focus on appearances and potential accolades, such as the Nobel Peace Prize, is a factor.