Washington D.C.- A meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyj at the White House has sparked controversy over a tie worn by Pete Hegseth, a close Trump ally, prompting US Vice president JD Vance to publicly defend him. The dispute centers on claims the tie’s colors mirrored the russian flag, igniting accusations of pro-Putin sentiment.
The incident unfolded after American YouTuber and former US Army officer Jake Breaux posted a photo on X (formerly Twitter) of Hegseth during the meeting, stating, “Pete Hegseth showed up to the meeting with President Zelensky at the White House today wearing a tie in the colors of the Russian tricolor. These people love Putin and Russia.” Hegseth was seated to Trump’s left, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio between them and Vice President Vance and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to Hegseth’s right. The photo was also shared by Kirill Dmitriyev, a close envoy to Russian leader Vladimir putin, accompanied by a Russian flag emoji.
Russian state news agency Tass further amplified the situation, noting Hegseth wore a tie with white, blue, and red stripes - colors also found on the American flag – but described the arrangement as “particularly striking.” vance responded to Breaux’s post on X, writing, “Or perhaps he wore the colors of America.”
The controversy underscores heightened scrutiny of individuals within Trump’s orbit,particularly regarding their potential views on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war,following Trump’s stated confidence in his ability to resolve the conflict. Hegseth, often referred to as Trump’s “Minister of War,” has been a vocal supporter of the former president and a frequent commentator on political issues.
