How Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues to stand out as a leader - Daxa Patel
In an era marked by frequent errors of judgment on both sides of the political divide, we witness a rare example of steadfast leadership in one man, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. A true leader is not one who poses for photographs amid accolades but one who quietly undertakes the hard work necessary to protect their people in the best way possible.
Ukraine now enters its fifth year of war and remains standing thanks to the bravery of its citizens and their valiant leader, a comedian turned wartime commander.
Mr Zelenskyy is young enough to harness social media to draw global attention to his country’s plight, yet wise enough to adapt amid unwarranted criticism of his leadership. While leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump exhibit inflated egos and a belief that might makes right, Mr Zelenskyy embodies gumption, courage, and humility.
Despite calls from some quarters for him to call elections to renew his mandate, his popularity within Ukraine remains so high that leaders worldwide watch with envy.
Leaders are not born; they are forged by circumstance and, more importantly, by a profound sense of duty. The English word ‘duty’ seems inadequate here, so I borrow the Hindi term ‘dharma,’ which encompasses a sense of righteous responsibility and moral order.
We encounter leaders in everyday life. Raised by a single father at a time when single parenthood was seldom recognised, I witnessed my father’s quiet labour behind the scenes to provide for his children. Countless single parents worldwide make similar sacrifices, yet society often takes this for granted, assuming that parents are naturally expected to work hard to raise their offspring. But who decided this? How many are truly equipped for such a role?
The evolution of leadership in recent times is best illustrated by how Mr Zelenskyy has kept Ukraine in the global consciousness. While wars rage elsewhere, Ukraine has not been forgotten because its leader ensures the world knows what is happening.
An unlikely war leader, perhaps, but not an accidental one. A career politician might have failed where Mr Zelenskyy has succeeded. His background in acting made him an underdog, an unlikely candidate for the highest office in Ukraine. Yet, lacking the typical political ambition of career politicians, he gradually embraced the role, driven by purpose rather than personal gain. When I think of Mr Zelenskyy, I also think of Alexei Navalny, another opponent of Mr Putin. It is crucial to distinguish the Russian people from their leader; many Russians find the invasion of Ukraine unforgivable.
In appearance, Mr Zelenskyy is often criticised for not wearing a smart suit, instead opting for military attire. His decision to remain in Kyiv, the capital, at the war’s outset despite grave personal risk demonstrated resolute resistance and established his credentials as a credible leader with a profound sense of purpose.
As the war has continued, Ukraine has suffered not only the destruction of infrastructure but also economic hardship and war fatigue. Mr Zelenskyy has repeatedly sought diplomatic solutions with a man intent not on peace but on domination, aiming to resurrect the Soviet Union’s former expanse.
There is no imminent end in sight to this conflict, despite the heavy casualties and losses. Some Ukrainians have found temporary refuge abroad, thanks to the kindness of strangers, but their hearts yearn to return home and rebuild their beloved country.
Listening recently to the former British Prime Minister suggest that British troops should be deployed to Ukraine in a non-combat role was, at best, irresponsible and inflammatory. Putin’s gaze is fixed not only on Ukraine but also on the West. We stand at the dawn of a potential Third World War, with Ukraine on the frontline. Complacency is not an option. This is yet another reason why our nation cannot afford weak leadership.
Mr Zelenskyy has done his utmost. Yes, he has faced challenges within his inner circle, including corruption, but no one can claim he has failed to keep the world’s attention fixed on the war in his country. Mr Putin, in contrast, has become a pariah on the global stage, yet remains unaccountable.
Meanwhile, as the UK Parliament expends precious time debating the removal of a former prince from the line of succession and the peerage of a former frontline politician, should we not instead focus our leadership energy on strengthening our defences?
Our Armed Forces Minister, Al Carns, a former special forces colonel in the Royal Marines, has warned that Ukraine is the frontline of Europe’s defence.
He cautions that Britain is not immune, with Russia attacking UK interests across multiple fronts.
There is no prescribed rulebook for leadership excellence, but there are role models from whom we can learn. Without a deep sense of purpose and commitment to those we serve, we are destined to fail.
Daxa Manhar Patel is a leadership coach, author and solicitor.