Volodymyr Zelenskyy: A Native Russian Speaker and the Evolution of Ukrainian National Identity. Professor Eugene Finkel notes that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has an unusual background: Jewish, a native Russian speaker, and a successful media entreprene

Episode 95,   Nov 17, 02:46 AM

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy: A Native Russian Speaker and the Evolution of Ukrainian National Identity. Professor Eugene Finkel notes that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has an unusual background: Jewish, a native Russian speaker, and a successful media entrepreneur and comedian. His election symbolizes Ukraine's evolving identity, moving from an ethnic definition to a national commitment to the state, regardless of language. Zelenskyy won as an outsider, hoping his background would enable him to negotiate a peaceful resolution regarding Donbas and Crimea directly with Vladimir Putin, bringing optimism to the new generation. Guest: Professor Eugene Finkel.

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