Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has responded to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s comments regarding his legitimacy by stating that it is up to the Ukrainian people to determine their leader’s legitimacy, not for Putin or any other foreign power. This came after Putin questioned Zelenskiy’s rule and the direction in which he is leading Ukraine.
Zelenskiy emphasized Ukraine’s sovereignty and democratic process, asserting that only Ukrainian citizens have the right to make such determinations through their elections and political mechanisms. His statement underscores the ongoing tension between Ukraine and Russia, particularly concerning issues of national sovereignty and self-determination.
The Ukrainian president also reaffirmed his commitment to defending the country’s independence and territorial integrity against any external interference. By doing so, Zelenskiy seeks to reinforce Ukraine’s position on the global stage as a nation capable of governing its own affairs without undue influence from other nations.