It is surreal that the start of the Ukrainian invasion started just over a week ago. A lot can happen in seven days. At approximately 3am GMT on February 22, 2022, Vladimir Putin commanded Russia’s forces to start a massive military assault on neighbouring Ukraine. This attack came after Russia amassed more than 100,000 troops at Ukraine’s border, despite numerous denials that it was all just part of a military exercise.
In among the horror, many heroes and villains have emerged, with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy coming to represent his country's bravery in the face of an overpowering force, The comic-turned-politician memorably turned down the US's offer to get him out of the country, as Russia had sent in crack teams of soldiers with the mission to kill him, saying 'I need ammunition, not a ride.'
We spoke to someone who knows President Zelenskyy well and who is able to offer insight into his method of thinking. Iuliia Mendel is a journalist, author, political advisor and was the president's press secretary for two years. In this exclusive interview, she shares her stories of the president, revealing his determination to fight for his country, and how British aid efforts are being perceived in Ukraine.
