At the beginning of the year, Russia advanced with its troops and invaded Ukraine. In the midst of death and destruction, the symbol of unity became President Volodymyr Zelensky. As the leader battling the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Zelensky was named Time Person of the Year on December 7th.
Zelensky was a former comedian who was elected as the President of Ukraine in 2019. Since then he has grown and become a proactive leader for his country.
Back in February when Russia launched the invasion of Ukraine, President Zelensky was given two options: flee to a secure place or remain in his compound in Kyvie, the capital of Ukraine. The inexperienced President chose the latter and has periodically moved locations.
His resilience these past few months has been a key factor in keeping the country afloat. Through his many speeches and strategic military efforts, he has given hope to the people of Ukraine. Zelensky stood up to the Russian invasion and would report the country’s situation to the rest of the world.
During the long nights, Zelensky would take the opportunity to go on social media to motivate the people of Ukraine and send a message to the rest of the leaders around the world. He has been in the spotlight of the world stage since the invasion and has addressed the UN Security Council, United States Congress, and Parliament, amongst other foreign leaders.
The once lighthearted president quickly became a wartime leader and has managed Ukraine’s image throughout the war. On March 16th, President Zelensky appealed to Congress for aid in the war.
“Today, the Ukrainian people are defending not only Ukraine, we are fighting for the values of Europe and the world, sacrificing our lives in the name of the future,” said Zelensky.
The President has made it clear to the world that there is more at stake and he intends to stand his ground in Ukraine. His determination and persistence have created a unique momentum for the country.
After nine months of the Russian invasions, the Ukrainians were able to successfully repeal the Russian forces and reclaim the city of Kherson, the only regional capital that was under Russian control. Even when all odds pointed to the definite rule of Kherson by Russia, the capital was finally liberated.
President Zelensky decided to visit Kherson immediately after Russia fled in order to cement the retreat and send a message to the world that Ukraine was strong and would not go down easily. Even though the city was destroyed and there was no electricity or water, this did not stop the President.
“As I see it, it’s my duty to go there and show them that Ukraine has returned, that it supports them. Maybe it will give them enough of a boost to last a few more days. But I’m not sure. I don’t lull myself with such illusions,” said Zelensky in the Time‘s Person of the Year article.
While President Zelensky has remained a beacon of hope for the Ukrainians, he knows the path that lies ahead and has to keep fighting the ongoing battle for his country.
