As we arrive at the presidential complex in Kyiv, the air raid siren echoes in the background, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Inside the bunker, the weariness is palpable, and the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, expresses the tense atmosphere prevailing in the country.
Amidst the 18-month-long war instigated by Russian President Vladimir Putin, she fears the international community may lose interest in Ukraine’s plight, stressing the catastrophic consequences if the aggressor is allowed to triumph.
Olena Zelenska shares her determination to keep hope alive and calls for faster and more robust support from the global community.
The Burdens of Being a First Lady in War:
Olena Zelenska, a former comedy scriptwriter, finds herself in a challenging position as Ukraine’s first lady during a time of war.
Her every action and expression come under scrutiny.
Striking the right balance between demonstrating seriousness about the devastation and expressing gratitude without appearing ungrateful is a constant challenge.
While she works tirelessly on the ground, her role as a mother-of-two and a supportive spouse often overshadows her impactful work.
Empowering First Ladies and Men:
Zelenska aims to redefine the role of presidential partners worldwide.
She strives to move beyond being mere “decorative” accessories and seeks to establish a trend where first ladies and men can engage, exchange experiences, and collaborate on joint projects.
She has launched the Olena Zelenska Foundation to provide aid and support, while also hosting a “Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen” focusing on mental health.
The Horrors of the Ongoing War:
The war’s cumulative consequences have been devastating for Ukraine, with many people killed or missing.
Disturbing accounts of torture and sexual violence by Russian soldiers have emerged, though many victims fear speaking out due to the stigma and judgment surrounding such crimes.
Children have not been spared, with thousands forcibly transferred to Russia.
Zelenska highlights the importance of raising awareness and retrieving missing children from the clutches of war.
Personal Impact:
Even Olena Zelenska’s own family has been affected by the war.
Her children have been living separately from their father for safety reasons.
Though they can occasionally visit, the separation weighs heavily on them.
Zelenska longs for a return to a more normal family life and looks forward to the war’s end.
Urgent Need for Continued Support:
Despite the ongoing challenges, Zelenska emphasizes that Ukraine’s survival is at stake, and they have no choice but to endure.
She pleads for continuous support from the international community, expressing concerns that some countries may underestimate the threat of Russia.
The outcome of this conflict will not only determine Ukraine’s fate but also impact the democratic balance worldwide.
Conclusion:
As Ukraine perseveres through its protracted conflict, First Lady Olena Zelenska tirelessly advocates for her country’s well-being and the well-being of those affected by war.
With the support of the global community, she believes there is hope for a better future and a return to normalcy.
The importance of staying committed and resolute in aiding Ukraine cannot be overstated, as it represents not only the interests of the nation but also the preservation of democratic values worldwide.