In an interview with the Daily Mail, the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, shared how her relationship with her husband, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has changed over the past two years. Despite the rare meetings and limited communication, their marriage, she says, has become stronger.
Zelenska noted that their 20-year relationship has become better thanks to constant support and understanding of each other during a difficult period. She noted that their communication became more emotional and warm. “I think we became closer and more connected because we supported each other in the way we hoped. I believe I haven't let him down, and he never lets me down. We don't see each other as often as we would like, but every meeting is a joy. We never get tired of each other, and this makes our family stronger," the first lady shared.
After the start of the war on February 24, 2022, the couple lives separately. Olena Zelenska said that before they could see each other only a few hours a week, but now they have the opportunity to communicate more often. "This is not a normal life for anyone in a country at war. This is a constant psychological burden and pressure. I'm hoping that when the pressure is off, we can stay sane and all will be well. But now I think that we are emotionally closer than ever," Olena said.
Zelenska emphasized that she is proud of her husband's resilience. She noted that his determination and endurance inspire her not to give up. "During the terrible days of the war, I did not doubt his behavior for a second. But I am even more proud of his resilience. This is a long-term marathon, and showing courage once is possible, but constant commitment and strength in achieving a common goal requires much more. He is coping, and I pray that he does not lose his strength," Olena added.
The couple is raising two children: 11-year-old son Kirill and 19-year-old daughter Oleksandra, who studies at one of the capital's universities.