Why a region that voted against Zelenskyy now embraces him

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was once a TV comedian. Today he is the moral conscience of a nation, whose daily speeches inspire his people.

Little debate existed until two weeks ago about where President Volodymyr Zelenskyy could least expect a warm welcome in Ukraine. In Lviv, an elegant, cosmopolitan city of cobblestone streets, cafe culture, and manicured parks on the country’s western flank, residents viewed him more as chief jester than commander in chief.

In 2019, Mr. Zelenskyy, a former actor who played the role of president in a popular...