“Already the next generation of Ukrainians, like Zelensky’s own son, were learning about the tools of war instead of planning for prosperity,” the magazine wrote about Zelensky’s wartime leadership. “That is the pattern the president aims to disrupt, and his plan relies on more than weapons.”
The Time Person of the Year category has historically been associated with people who have been most influential during the year, ranging from previous title holders like Greta Thunberg and Pope Francis to Vladimir Putin and Adolf Hitler. Last year, the magazine named Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk—who has since purchased Twitter—for the title, a year following Joe Biden and Kamala Harris being co-named. During Russia’s nearly 10-month invasion of Ukraine, Zelensky has been vocal against Russia’s efforts while presenting himself in person during Kherson’s most recent liberation. Prior to his time as Ukraine’s president, Zelensky worked as a stage actor and improv comedian while also spending time as a movie producer.