I did not vote for Ukraine’s president. His courage has changed my mind and inspired millions.

“Captain Ukraine,” the first “true” president of Ukraine, a hero, a leader. I would have never thought I would see people use these terms to refer to Volodymyr Zelensky.

Back in 2019, I did not vote for him. Like some other Ukrainians, I did not believe Zelensky, a comedian, actor and entertainer with no experience in politics, was suited for the job. His campaign was idealistic but lacked substance. He was often vague and raised concerns about where he stood toward Russia. He had his own powerful backer, the billionaire who owned the TV station that broadcast “Servant of the People,” the show that made Zelensky a star. But he won with overwhelming support.