The Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, whose efforts to fight off Russia’s invasion of his nation have garnered global praise, has been recognized by TIME’s Person of the Year beside “the spirit of Ukraine.” Edward Felsenthal, editor-in-chief of TIME, said on Wednesday that Volodymyr Zelensky energized the world in a manner we have not experienced in years, whether the battle for Ukraine inspires one with optimism or with terror.
How did He Support Kyiv?
His choice to remain in Kyiv and mobilize support rather than leave was pivotal in the weeks that followed the start of the Russian bombing on February 24. Ukraine’s President was all around, from his first 40-second Instagram post on February 25 – demonstrating that his cwere all intact and functioning – to everyday speeches made remotely to venues like parliament, the Grammy Awards, and the World Bank.
Reasons He Was Named TIME’s Person of the Year
In a matter of a few years, Zelensky’s unexpected professional path propelled him from a comedy performer to a wartime president. At 41, he was elected President of Ukraine in April 2019. He had previously worked as a performer, appearing in from coms and co-founding a lucrative TV production firm.
His emotional video addresses from the streets of the shell-damaged capital of Kyiv, where he stayed after Russia invaded Ukraine in February, brought him new popularity. Despite intelligence suggesting he was a top target for the Russian invaders and a US evacuation proposal. As reported by the Ukrainian embassy in Britain, he informed the US the fight was there; he needed ammunition, not a ride. Although the title TIME’s Person of the Year is not always given as an honor, it does show that the recipient has a significant impact on international events.
