How War Changed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Jan 23, 2024
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Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, discusses his rise to power as a famous entertainer and satirist. The podcast covers his infamous call with Trump, the impact of the war with Russia, and his evolving approach to military decision-making.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy's rise from entertainment to politics was fueled by his popular show 'Servant of the People' and his vague campaign promises of anti-corruption and a fresh start.
The war with Russia has transformed Zelenskyy into a determined leader focused on achieving a total victory and the return of occupied territories, while also facing challenges in sustaining international support and investing in domestic weapons production.
Deep dives
Zelensky's Background and Early Career
Volodemir Zelensky, the current president of Ukraine, hails from a rough industrial city called Krivirik and grew up in a Russian-speaking Jewish family. Despite the challenging environment, Zelensky managed to avoid the pitfalls of his city through his family's support and focus on education. He pursued a career in entertainment and became one of the most famous entertainers in Ukraine and Russia, known for his political satire and influential roles in TV shows and films. Zelensky amassed significant wealth and success before entering politics.
Zelensky's Political Rise and Transition
Zelensky's transition from entertainer to a political leader began with his popular TV show 'Servant of the People,' where he unintentionally played the role of an accidental president. His popularity and vague campaign promises of anti-corruption and a fresh start resonated with the Ukrainian people, leading to his political party winning a majority in parliament. However, his platform lacked specific details on major policy issues, relying on his charisma and optimism to connect with voters.
Zelensky's Handling of International Relations
Internationally, Zelensky strived to maintain strong relationships and secure support for Ukraine's fight against Russian occupation. He believed in his ability to charm and negotiate, seeking recognition and assistance from Western leaders. However, he faced challenges, such as unpredictable interactions with former President Donald Trump and the need to combat waning international attention to the conflict. Zelensky's approach evolved as the war continued, balancing negotiations and military strategies to maintain international backing.
Zelensky's Transformation and Current Challenges
Over the course of his presidency, Zelensky has transformed into a more determined and resolute leader. The ongoing war, atrocities committed by Russians in Ukraine, and the evolving dynamics of the conflict have shaped his mindset and priorities. Zelensky remains committed to achieving a total victory and the return of occupied territories, but faces challenges in sustaining international support and addressing a potential shift in U.S. policy. Ukraine is also investing in domestic weapons production to ensure the continuation of the fight if external aid decreases.
Time correspondent Simon Shuster has been interviewing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy since 2019, when Zelenskyy was still a famous entertainer and satirist. Shuster talks about Zelenskyy's rise to power, the infamous call with Trump that led to Trump's first impeachment, and how the war with Russia has changed him. Shuster's new book is The Showman.