Comic Turned Politician Standing Up To Russia

Volodymyr Zelensky is a comedian turned President – and now global hero.

- Sarah O'Grady

His courage has seen him continue to stand up to Russian aggression despite being massively outgunned.

His humour and quick quips have pushed countries across the world to help him and his fellow countrymen and women in their fight for democracy.

“It’s ammunition I need, not a ride,” he told the American government when they offered to airlift him and his family out of Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine.

To Russian President Putin, he said: “When you attack us, you will see our faces, not our backs.”

Few thought the one-time member of Ukrainian comedy troupe Kvartal 95 and former winner of the country’s version of Strictly Come Dancing was going to waltz into a position of international importance.

But in refusing to leave Kyiv, the 44-yearold – who was also the voice of Paddington when the hit film was dubbed into Ukrainian – has emerged as the figurehead of his nation’s resistance.

Trounced

Two days ago Mr Zelensky reportedly told EU leaders during a video call: “This might be the last time you see me alive.”

Born to Jewish parents in Russianspeaking south-east Ukraine, Mr Zelensky was best known for his four-year role as a high school teacher in the 2015 TV satire Servants Of The People.

His character becomes an unexpected political star after a video of him ranting against corruption goes viral, leading him to be elected as president.