So Who is Volodomyr Zelensky? - 27 February 2022 19:53 (GMT)
Ukraine’s passionate and inspiring leader has been suddenly thrown under the spotlight following his leadership and steadfastness in the face of the Russian invasion - but before that, he had been a little-known, comic turned unlikely politician. So who is he, and what impact can one man have against the onslaught of Russia’s military might?
Originally from south-east Ukraine, Zelensky was one of Ukraine’s most popular TV actors and comedians only four years ago (even playing the role of President of Ukraine in a. 4-year long sitcom), before running for president on an anti-corruption, populist campaign against the incumbent Poroshenko. He won by a landslide, receiving 73% of the vote in the second round of the general election in 2019.
He’s now been thrust into the forefront of the international image of Ukrainian resistance with his use of social media, impassioned speeches and interventions into meetings with EU leaders. Clad in a khaki fleece and often with other members of his cabinet, the videos are reaching a global audience and galvanising thousands of gatherings in support of Ukraine, as well as actively influencing other leaders to change their policies of non-interventionism. Zelensky’s decision to remain in Kyiv, while it’s under Russian attack, has been lauded and has moved many, both at home and abroad. Attributed to his actions and those of other major figures in Ukrainian politics (notably the mayor of Kyiv and ex-world super heavyweight boxing champion, Vitali Klitschko). Zelensky’s speech to European leaders is credited with moving otherwise reluctant leaders from some states to endorse the strongest package of economic sanctions ever levied on Russia, and was influential in getting Germany (amongst others) to move from post-war pacifist policies and send Ukraine offensive and defensive weaponry.
Whilst his speeches and social media presence may not be destroying Russian tanks, it is surely stimulating Ukrainian patriotism, increasing morale and spreading information (such as how to make Molotov cocktails) as well as mobilising the international effort to support Ukraine and sanction Russia. Some of his quotes will surely be remembered throughout history when retelling the story of the war, with statements including:
“This may be the last time you see me alive” - how he ended a call with major European leaders
“I need ammunition, not a ride” - in response to US offers of an airlift evacuation for him and his senior officials
“I will say frankly that I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try to make sure that no citizen of Ukraine has any doubt that I, as president, did not try to stop the war” - when questioned about the potential for success of the peace talks being hosted by Belarus
Zelensky will be remembered for his scathing response of Russian claims of ‘Neo-Nazis running Kyiv’s government’ - he himself is Jewish. He has risen to the occasion and has provided an excellent leader figurehead for a beleaguered nation. The outcome of this war may well be decided by his influencing of domestic and international public opinion.