For all his faults and hubris, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy possesses one unmistakable quality: courage.That became apparent during a memorable moment more than three years ago when Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine.
A foreboding, endless column of Russian tanks and other armoured vehicles had breached the border in a pincer pattern.
In the halting face of such an intimidating display of overwhelming force, defeat seemed close by.
Kyiv looked bound to fall. Zelenskyy and company would be arrested or killed as a lethal exclamation point while Russian President Vladimir Putin installed a puppet regime to bow and obey.
The comedian turned unlikely wartime leader did not flinch. He stood his ground – on the sacred soil of Ukraine.
To reassure fretful Ukrainians, Zelenskyy posted a short video on social media featuring himself surrounded by several solemn-looking officials and cabinet ministers.
“The president is here,” he said. “We are all here … defend[ing] our independence.” Advertisement
I was reminded of that remarkable scene while I read accounts over the past few months from a disparate group of Americans, including artists and academics, departing their beloved homeland in the distressing wake of President Donald Trump’s jarring return to the Oval Office.
Before I continue, I am obliged to make two instructive points.
First, by invoking Zelenskyy’s vow to remain in Ukraine despite the ominous risks, I do not mean to imply that enlightened Americans opting to forgo living and working in the United States, lack coura …
