95: 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,

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. 1855