War has always had a profound impact on families, and Ukraine’s first lady, Olena Zelenska, recently opened up about the emotional toll that Russia’s invasion and the resulting war have had on her family. In a deeply personal interview with the BBC, she revealed the hardships and challenges her family has faced as a result of this ongoing conflict.
Zelenska expressed her concern for her children, who have been living in a state of uncertainty since the invasion. Unable to plan for their futures and constantly plagued by the fear and anxiety that come with living in a warzone, her children have been deeply affected. With her daughter being just 19 years old, she is at an age where she should be dreaming of traveling, experiencing new sensations, and exploring the world. However, due to the limitations and restrictions imposed by the war, these opportunities are currently out of reach. It pains Zelenska to see her children unable to plan for their lives and experience the freedom that they deserve.
The first lady herself has spent months in hiding, constantly moving between secret locations to ensure the safety of her family. In the early days of the invasion, she described feeling a constant rush of adrenaline, as the situation was both unpredictable and dangerous. Over time, she realized the importance of remaining calm and adapting to the existing conditions. Despite the physical separation from her husband, President Volodymyr Zelensky, Olena Zelenska emphasized that they remain strong together, drawing from their emotional and physical resilience to overcome the challenges they face.
While the first lady acknowledged her longing to have her husband by her side as a partner rather than a historical figure, she also expressed her belief in President Zelensky’s strength and resilience. She commended his ability to lead the country during this difficult time and recognized that his determination and willpower have played a crucial role in navigating the war. Their high school romance transformed into a partnership in the comedy industry, and Olena Zelenska never imagined that her husband would become the historical figure he is today. However, she continues to support him wholeheartedly and believes that he possesses the necessary qualities to guide Ukraine through this crisis.
As first lady, Olena Zelenska has taken on the role of supporting fellow Ukrainians dealing with the psychological impact of war. She understands the toll that constant stress and uncertainty can take on individuals and communities, and she aims to inspire others through her own example of resilience and determination. In an upcoming event in Kyiv, she will be hosting a gathering focused on mental health and resilience, hoping to provide hope, advice, and support for those in need. Zelenska’s work as first lady not only showcases her dedication to her country but also highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues during times of crisis.
Ukraine’s struggle with the war has been devastating, and the uncertainty of tomorrow weighs heavily on its citizens. Despite the challenges, Olena Zelenska remains hopeful for victory and believes that resilience is necessary for Ukraine to overcome this difficult time. However, the toll of the long wait and constant stress cannot be underestimated. The emotional impact of war on individuals, families, and communities is immense and should not be overlooked.
As Ukraine’s first lady bravely shares her personal experience, it serves as a reminder of the human cost of war. It is vital for society to come together and provide support for those affected, both on an individual level and at a broader national scale. With empathy, understanding, and resilience, Ukrainians can find hope and work towards a brighter future, despite the challenges presented by this ongoing conflict.
