Volodymyr Zelensky
Volodymyr Zelensky (born 25 January 1978) is a Ukrainian politician, actor, and comedian who has served as the sixth and current president of Ukraine since 2019.
Early life and education Zelensky was born on 25 January 1978 in Kryvyi Rih, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union, to Jewish parents. His father, Oleksandr Zelensky, was a professor of cybernetics at the Kryvyi Rih National University, and his mother, Rymma Zelenska, was an engineer. Zelensky grew up in a predominantly Russian-speaking family and he did not learn Ukrainian until he was in his teens.
Zelensky studied law at the Kryvyi Rih National University, but he did not complete his degree. Instead, he pursued a career in entertainment.
Entertainment career In 1997, Zelensky co-founded the comedy troupe Kvartal 95, which became one of the most popular comedy troupes in Ukraine. He also starred in several television shows and films, including the sitcom Servant of the People (2015-2019), in which he played the president of Ukraine.
Political career In 2019, Zelensky announced his candidacy for president of Ukraine. He ran on a platform of anti-corruption and改革. He won the election in a landslide, defeating incumbent president Petro Poroshenko.
Presidency Zelensky was inaugurated as president of Ukraine on 20 May 2019. He immediately began implementing his campaign promises, including cracking down on corruption and reforming the government. He also made efforts to improve relations with Russia and the European Union.
In 2022, Zelensky's presidency was tested by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He refused to flee the country and instead rallied his people to resist the invasion. He also launched a diplomatic offensive, calling on the international community to support Ukraine.
Personal life Zelensky is married to Olena Zelenska, a former screenwriter. They have two children, Oleksandra and Kyrylo.
Awards and honors Zelensky has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Liberty and the Taras Shevchenko National Prize. He was also named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2022.
