Irish Examiner View: An unlikely hero has emerged in Ukraine

As a wartime president, former comedian Volodymyr Zelenskyy's messaging has been consistent and sharply directed at Moscow.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses the nation in Kyiv on February 24. Picture: Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP

As putative peace talks between Russia and Ukraine began yesterday, it was becoming apparent that the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emerged as a critical rallying force for his people, his nation, and all those opposed to Russia’s illegal onslaught on the country.

The former actor and comedian’s only political experience before being elected was playing the role of Ukraine’s president in a satirical TV series.