Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s journey from comedian to president has been nothing short of extraordinary. Once known for making people laugh, he is now a symbol of resilience as he leads Ukraine through one of its most difficult times. Yet, behind the scenes, his wife, Olena Zelenska, has played a vital role, offering both personal support and a sense of stability to the Ukrainian people.
While she may not be in the public eye as much as her husband, Olena has worked tirelessly to help Ukrainians maintain a sense of normalcy despite the ongoing war. Recently, she addressed the harrowing issue of Ukrainian children being abducted and taken to Russia—a crisis that has devastated many families. Unfortunately, the reality of the situation remains grim.
Olena and Volodymyr have shared a deep bond for years, but their journey into politics was never planned. When Zelenskyy first announced his candidacy, Olena was reportedly hesitant. Born in Kryvyi Rih in 1978, she grew up in the same city as her future husband, though their paths did not cross until their university years.
During their time as students, they developed a relationship that would last a lifetime. Volodymyr was studying law while also pursuing comedy, and though their connection was not immediate, it grew over time. After eight years of dating, they married in 2003, welcoming their daughter, Aleksandra, a year later. Their son, Kiril, was born in 2013.
At the time, neither imagined a future in politics. Olena focused on writing while Volodymyr built a successful entertainment career. She even worked as a scriptwriter for his comedy projects, including the hit television show Servant of the People.
The show, which aired between 2015 and 2019, told the story of a high school teacher who unexpectedly became Ukraine’s president after calling out government corruption. In an unexpected twist, fiction turned into reality when Volodymyr entered politics and won the presidency in 2019.
As he took office, Olena embraced her new role as First Lady. She focused on improving children’s health, particularly school nutrition, to promote healthier eating habits. She studied other countries’ systems and drew inspiration from Japan, where schools employ nutritionists to cater to students with allergies. She was determined to implement similar changes in Ukraine.
Then, in 2022, everything changed. When Russia launched its invasion, Olena and her children were forced into hiding. Despite the dangers, she refused to leave Ukraine, choosing to remain alongside her husband and her people.
In a powerful message, she expressed her determination to stand strong. “I will not have panic and tears,” she wrote on Instagram. “I will be calm and confident. My children are looking at me. I will be next to them. And next to my husband. And with you.”
The war has dramatically altered their lives. Speaking with CNN, Olena shared how difficult it has been to be separated from her husband due to security concerns. “It’s not normal,” she said. “It’s not a normal relationship when children cannot see their father and have to talk to him on the phone. So our relationship is on pause just as it is for all Ukrainians.”
In an interview with Good Morning America, she revealed how they had to say goodbye on the very first day of the invasion. “Over the next two months, we only had a chance to speak via the phone,” she said. “I’m really proud of the fact that the world has uncovered the true identity of my husband.”
Despite the immense pressure, their marriage has remained strong. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Olena explained how the war has actually deepened their connection. “We’re never tired of each other, we never bore each other. And it makes the family stronger, too.”
Beyond supporting her husband, Olena has continued advocating for important causes. She has encouraged Ukrainian women to pursue entrepreneurship, helping to strengthen the country’s economy during these difficult times. However, the harsh realities of war remain ever-present, especially regarding the fate of Ukrainian children.
During an appearance on an Italian news program, she stressed the importance of keeping global attention on Ukraine. “Instead of stopping the aggressor, discussions begin about some so-called mutually beneficial dialogue with him. This is a distortion of reality, a blurring of morality. And it is an extremely dangerous situation for everyone.”
She emphasized that Ukraine’s fight is not just about reclaiming land—it’s about protecting its people. “We are fighting for our people in the occupied territories. These kilometers are their homes, their jobs, their schools. These people have the right to live in their country without fear. We cannot leave them in danger.”
One of the most heartbreaking consequences of the war has been the abduction of Ukrainian children. According to Ukrainian authorities, more than 19,000 children have been taken to Russia. Olena recently revealed that only 1,227 have been successfully returned.
Russia continues to obstruct these efforts, making it incredibly difficult for families to reunite. In response, Ukraine has launched the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, with 41 countries now involved in the mission to bring them home.
Despite the horrors of war, Olena remains steadfast in her resolve. She continues to fight for her country and its people, embodying resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. Her unwavering commitment serves as an inspiration to many, proving that even in the darkest times, strength and hope can endure.
