Volodymyr Zelensky: Four Years of War, Assassination Plots, and Political Trials That Shaped Ukraine’s Defiant Leader

As Russian forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022, rumours swirled that President Volodymyr Zelensky had fled Kyiv. Instead, Zelensky posted a grainy video outside the presidential office declaring, “We are here,” signalling defiance as Russia’s rapid advance threatened the capital.

Moscow had planned to capture or kill Zelensky in its initial blitz, with Russian operatives reportedly renting apartments near the presidential palace, ready to act. But Zelensky stayed, asserting, “I need ammunition, not a ride,” when the US offered evacuation. That act of courage became emblematic of his leadership style: resilient, direct, and unafraid under fire.

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Surviving Assassinations and Scandals

Over four years of conflict, Zelensky has weathered at least a dozen assassination attempts, corruption scandals involving close advisers, and public protests challenging his administration’s anti-graft policies. Despite these crises, he has retained broad popular support, with roughly 60% of Ukrainians expressing trust in him, though opinion is divided on a potential second term.

Zelensky’s handling of internal dissent, such as his clash with former military chief General Valerii Zaluzhnyi and corruption allegations against top aides, illustrates the complex balancing act of wartime leadership. His political acumen, combined with a natural talent for communication, has allowed him to navigate these challenges while maintaining morale at home and abroad.

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From Comedian to Wartime Leader

Before politics, Zelensky built a business empire and starred in the hit TV show “Servant of the People,” portraying an everyman schoolteacher turned president. Critics initially dismissed his candidacy as a joke, but he won a landslide victory over incumbent Petro Poroshenko in 2019.

His media skills proved invaluable during the war. Self-recorded videos from Kyiv and frontline towns, often informal and selfie-style, enabled him to communicate directly with citizens and soldiers alike. Despite growing gray stubble and early mornings starting at 3 a.m., Zelensky continues to connect with his people authentically, even learning Ukrainian as an adult to address his nation in its official language.

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A Calculated Diplomat

Zelensky’s strategic outreach has secured vital international support. He leveraged public appeals to European citizens to pressure their governments into providing weapons and aid. While his approach initially clashed with former US President Donald Trump, resulting in a tense Oval Office encounter in 2025, Zelensky has since refined his diplomacy, maintaining essential support from Washington and European capitals.

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Leadership Under Fire

Ukraine’s early successes, such as repelling the Russian advance on Kyiv and liberating territories around Kherson, cemented Zelensky’s credibility. Yet the war’s stalemate along the 1,200-kilometer eastern front, ongoing Russian strikes on energy infrastructure, and stalled peace talks have tested the president’s endurance.

Inside Ukraine, Zelensky faces the dual pressures of frontline defense and domestic governance. Corruption scandals involving long-time aides and business partners, combined with public protests over anti-graft reforms, have challenged his image as a reformer. Nonetheless, Zelensky continues to adapt, replace key personnel, and maintain high approval ratings, demonstrating resilience reminiscent of historical wartime leaders like Winston Churchill.

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A Leader Tested, But Not Broken

Four years into a brutal war, Zelensky bears visible signs of strain. Yet those close to him note that his humor, empathy, and steadfastness remain intact. His wife, Olena Zelenska, describes the constant fear but also the rare moments of joy that punctuate their daily lives.

With Ukraine enduring cold winters, energy shortages, and relentless Russian offensives, Zelensky’s path forward is fraught with uncertainty. But allies like Deputy Chief of Staff Andrii Sybiha believe in his ability to “roll with the punches” and guide Ukraine toward eventual peace.