On a day of deep diplomatic intrigue and the biggest of geopolitical questions, it was a sartorial matter that was settled first at the White House.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wore a black suit-style jacket over a black shirt, attempting a more formal look than the military-style shirt he wore during his February Oval Office visit. The

Ukrainian analysts watching their president’s return to the White House were braced for a “nightmare.” They took cautious encouragement from what they saw instead.

But as the sketchy details have hardened into a growing prospect of forthcoming demands that will prove impossible for Ukraine to accept, confidence is giving way to unease, not least about the planned meeting in Washington on Monday between Mr Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Vice President JD Vance will attend the Oval Office meeting today with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and also participate in a meeting with European leaders, an official familiar with his plans said.