Overview
Timelines
Overview and main events
Early Life and Education
Career in Entertainment
Entry into Politics
Presidency and Key Political Actions
Leadership During the Russian Invasion
International Recognition and Awards
Political Reforms and Challenges
Cultural and Media Impact
International Diplomacy and Visits
Personal Life and Relationships
Chronicle
Articles
Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Overview and main events
Overview and main events
Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy, born on January 25, 1978, in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, is a Ukrainian politician and former entertainer who has made a significant impact on both the entertainment and political landscapes of Ukraine. From his early days as a comedian and actor to his current role as the sixth and current President of Ukraine, Zelenskyy's journey is marked by numerous milestones and challenges.
January 25, 1978
Birth
Volodymyr Zelenskyy was born in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, to a Ukrainian Jewish family. He grew up as a native Russian speaker and later relocated to Mongolia with his family before returning to Ukraine.
1997-2003
Early Career in Entertainment
Zelenskyy was an actor, performer, script writer, and producer for the stand-up comedy contest team 'KVARTAL 95'. This period laid the foundation for his future in the entertainment industry.
2000
Graduation
Zelenskyy graduated from the Kyiv National Economic University with a law degree, although he never practiced law and instead pursued a career in comedy and entertainment.
2003-2011
Executive Producer of KVARTAL 95
Zelenskyy founded and became the executive producer of 'KVARTAL 95', a production company that produced films, cartoons, and TV shows. During this time, he also served as the Chief Executive of PJSC 'Inter TV Station' from 2011 to 2012.
2015-2019
TV Series 'Servant of the People'
Zelenskyy starred in the TV series 'Servant of the People', where he played a fictional Ukrainian president. The show was immensely popular and later became the name of the political party he founded in 2018 to support his presidential campaign.
December 31, 2018
Presidential Candidacy Announcement
Zelenskyy announced his candidacy for the 2019 presidential election during the New Year's Eve address of then-president Petro Poroshenko on the TV channel 1+1. This marked his entry into politics, despite being a political outsider.
April 21, 2019
Election as President of Ukraine
Zelenskyy was elected as the sixth President of Ukraine, winning the election with 73.23 percent of the vote in the second round, defeating incumbent Petro Poroshenko in a landslide victory.
May 20, 2019
Inauguration
Zelenskyy was sworn in as President of Ukraine. In his inaugural address, he dissolved the Ukrainian parliament and called for early parliamentary elections, which were held on July 21, 2019, resulting in his party, 'Servant of the People', gaining an absolute majority.
February 2022
Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Zelenskyy remained in Kyiv, declined international offers to evacuate, and declared martial law across Ukraine. He has since become the face of Ukrainian resistance, appealing for international support and visiting frontline areas.
2022
Global Recognition and Leadership
Zelenskyy was named the *Time* Person of the Year for 2022 for his leadership during the Russian invasion. He has continued to rally international support, including a visit to the U.S. where he addressed Congress, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to stand with Ukraine.
2023
Continued Leadership and International Engagements
Zelenskyy continued to lead Ukraine through the ongoing conflict, shaking up his cabinet to address corruption and making trips abroad to secure support from EU leaders. He was awarded the Legion of Honour by French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to Paris.
