Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, was seen wearing a “CCCP” hoodie before the Alaska summit, sparking reactions and a playful remark from Vladimir Putin.
Lavrov’s Hoodie Sparks Commentary: The Guardian Calls It “Trolling Russia”
On Friday, August 15, a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump took place in Anchorage, Alaska. The Russian delegation arrived in the city a day earlier, as noted by journalists. Cameras captured a moment in which a car pulled up beneath a building where the Russians were likely staying, and Sergey Lavrov stepped out wearing a hoodie that immediately drew attention. The hoodie featured a large “CCCP” logo, the Russian abbreviation for the Soviet Union. The Guardian reported that the garment is a product of Selsovet, a brand from Chelyabinsk that specializes in “Soviet‑heritage” clothing. The British newspaper called Lavrov’s move “trolling” and “provocation” on behalf of Russia.
Vladimir Putin Jokes About Lavrov’s Outfit
The hoodie also caught the eye of U.S. President’s former Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who posted a video of the exchange on Telegram. The footage, accompanied by an explanation, featured Russian propagandist Paweł Zarubin and the Czech broadcaster Biełsat. In the clip, the U.S. Secretary of State, in reference to the hoodie, remarks “I like your outfit” and points to Lavrov’s suit. Lavrov explains to Putin what is happening, and Putin, laughing, calls him an “imperialist.”
Zelensky to Meet Trump at the White House
After the Alaska summit, Donald Trump invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House. The two leaders plan to discuss a trilateral summit with Vladimir Putin, expected to occur next week, which will also involve top European leaders. The presence of European leaders has already been confirmed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. The confirmed list for the Monday (August 18) talks in Washington also includes Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte.
