Trump, Zelensky, Biden Criticized for Breaking Dress Code at Pope’s Funeral

World leaders, including Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Joe Biden, faced criticism for not following the strict dress code at Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday.

The Vatican required men to wear black suits, long black ties, and white shirts. Women were asked to wear long black dresses, veils, and gloves.

Donald Trump wore a blue suit and blue tie with an American flag pin. He sat in the front row beside his wife, Melania, who followed the rules in a black coat, lace veil, and gloves. Social media users called Trump’s outfit “disrespectful,” with one saying he stood out “like a sore thumb.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wore an all-black combat-style jacket over a black shirt and pants, skipping the tie. This mirrored his October visit to the White House, where he faced similar criticism for not wearing a suit. Joe Biden also broke the code with a blue tie, though his wife, Jill, adhered to the rules in a black blazer, skirt, and veil.

Prince William wore a dark navy suit but followed guidelines with a black tie.

Two months ago, Zelensky’s casual outfit during a White House visit reportedly annoyed Trump, who later praised his style publicly. Advisers had urged Zelensky to wear a suit as a sign of respect.

Over 200,000 mourners filled St. Peter’s Square for the funeral. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re praised Pope Francis as a leader who made the Church “a home for all.” Applause erupted when he mentioned the Pope’s focus on migrants, peace, and climate change.

The Pope’s coffin, carried by 14 pallbearers, was placed under a gospel book. He will be buried in St. Mary Major Basilica with a simple tomb marked “Franciscus.”

Leaders from 150 countries attended. Melania’s presence was seen as key to easing tensions between Trump and Biden, who sat two rows apart. Trump later said meeting Biden was “not high on my list.”

Social media users slammed the dress code breaches. One criticized Trump: “Did he not have a black suit?” Another defended Zelensky, noting his wartime attire.

Pope Francis, 88, died on Monday after a stroke and heart failure. He had recently recovered from pneumonia and delivered an Easter blessing days before his death.

The funeral included prayers in multiple languages, reflecting the Church’s global reach. Mourners described the event as “the center of the world,” honoring the Pope’s humility and openness.