For Ukraine in the Russia- Ukraine war, the outlook has improved. A nation of 40 million people, compared to Russia’s 130 million, Ukraine was expected to collapse beneath the Russian avalanche. Instead, it has fought the invaders to a stalemate. Writes David French in The New York Times: “Events move quickly, but it is reasonably clear Ukraine is no longer the desperate underdog.”
Ukraine’s strikes with drones and missiles have proved rewarding. The inexpensive and often homemade devices have rained destruction deep inside Mother Russia. They have also revolutionized land warfare. Meanwhile the enemy’s vast army gains but inches and yards, at heavy costs in casualties and equipment.
What explains Ukraine’s determined resistance? A salient element: exceptional leadership from its President, Volodymyr Zelinsky, elected in 2019 by a margin of 73.23 percent— the biggest landslide in the nation’s history. With his person at grave risk, the man has suppressed fears and measured up in Ukraine’s struggle for survival.
He was an unlikely candidate. At age 44, Zelensky was a lawyer by training but never practiced. Instead, he pursued a career in comedy and entertainment. The record reveals no evidence of his military service or in the diplomatic corps.
His ordeal began in a momentous hour. Zelensky released a brief video from Kyiv Friday night, February 25, 2022 at the start of the Russian invasion. He informed his countrymen their government had not fled, that it was in place and prepared to stand and fight. “We are here,” he said, “We are in Kyiv. We are protecting Ukraine.”
Soldiers and civilians alike reported that Zelensky’s message and his refusal to flee for safety enforced their willingness to fight the Russians.
The World Economic Forum defines great leadership as a badge of service, as the ability to unite rather than divide. The Forum emphasizes the leader’s character, his courage to act for the greater good despite criticism, his capacity for inspiring others toward a shared future—by putting humanity and long-term vision over personal gain. Albert Schweitzer added: “Example is not the main thing in influencing others; it is the only thing.”
Zelensky clearly qualifies. He is an effective public speaker—an invaluable tool of any leader—and he exudes a steadfast, serious, articulate demeanor. He is unflappable, even when being humiliated in the Oval Office by the President of the United States. For Zelensky trivia and the incidentals are of no consequence.
His policies have embraced the War’s demands. He has steadily increased Ukraine’s own defenses. He has refused pressure to enter a quick peace settlement unfavorable to Ukraine, but favorable to the U.S. His efforts have prepared the country for waging war for as long as it takes. In particular, the weapons industry was enlarged for production of drones and missiles.
He has used them decisively, not only in bombing Russia’s infrastructure, but in supplying friendly nations with the new and amazing technology. This has led to a deeper cooperation with Europe and it could lead to his leadership becoming indispensable in the security of the West.
Great leaders are the rare exception, not the rule. They are found among those who know the way, go the way and show their people the way. By word and deed, Volodymyr Zelensky has joined an exclusive club.
Sources: “News Analysis,” New York Times, March 4, 2025; “Meet the New Leader of the Free World,” David French, New York Times, Apr. 28, p.A16 ; Wikipedia, “Volodymyr Zelensky.”
• Retired attorney Jim Thomas lives in Atlanta. Email jmtlawyerspeak@ yahoo. com
