Volodymyr Zelensky first gained the spotlight as an entertainer, not a politician. A comedian and actor, he starred in a Ukrainian television show about a teacher fed up with government corruption who unexpectedly becomes president of the country. Then Zelensky ran for president of Ukraine in real life and won, taking office in May 2019.

He seemed an unlikely hero, yet Zelensky revealed the depth of his strength and resolve when Russian forces invaded Ukraine in 2022. He remained in the country’s capital, even at enormous threat to his safety, delivering rousing speeches via video and devising a defense. Zelensky has become a symbol of great bravery around the world. Learn more about his life, his background, and his unwavering devotion to Ukraine.