Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his wife, Olena Zelenska, recently faced backlash for their Vogue photoshoot, particularly from Republican Congresswomen Lauren Boebert and Mayra Flores, who criticized the optics amidst significant U.S. aid to Ukraine. Boebert labeled the situation as Americans being “suckers,” while Flores expressed discontent over continuing financial support despite the photoshoot. Conversely, some defended the feature; Verizon’s Tami Erwin praised it, and activist Val Voschevska found the portrayal of Zelenska relatable. Zelenskyy noted the importance of media in shaping perception, and Zelenska emphasized the war’s toll on Ukrainians. The discussion is set against rising geopolitical tensions.
Zelenska and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the presidential office compound in Kyiv
Photo Credit: Vogue
This is not the first instance where Zelenskyy has encountered criticism regarding the photoshoot. Republican Congresswomen Lauren Boebert and Texas Congresswoman Mayra Flores have previously raised concerns about the optics of the shoot, especially considering the substantial American assistance being provided to Ukraine.
“While we send Ukraine $60 billion in aid, Zelenskyy is posing for Vogue. They seem to think we are nothing more than a bunch of fools,” Boebert tweeted. Meanwhile, Flores remarked, “Biden: Let’s keep sending billions in foreign aid to Ukraine, they need it! Reality: The Zelensky family graces us with a photoshoot for the cover of Vogue magazine.”
Nonetheless, not everyone is in agreement with the criticism. Tami Erwin, a Verizon executive, applauded the Vogue feature, describing it as “an outstanding profile.” Val Voschevska, a pro-Ukrainian activist, also defended the photoshoot, pointing out that Zelenska’s presence in the images was relatable and humanizing, stating, “She looks like any of us after a long day at work – the only difference is that her job involves protecting her country from war.”
Zelenska at Antonov Airport, in Hostomel, with a group of female Ukrainian soldiers
Photo Credit: Vogue
Zelenskyy himself has commented on the controversy surrounding Wired Magazine’s cover, emphasizing that he utilizes media to share his message and expressing, “If you want people to see you as you truly are, you must leverage what people engage with.” His wife, Olena Zelenska, echoed similar thoughts in the Vogue interview, shedding light on the hardships encountered by Ukrainians during the war, stating, “These have been the most dreadful months of my life, as well as for every Ukrainian.”
The renewed discussion surrounding the photoshoot arises during a critical period, with North Korea aligning with Russia and US President Donald Trump distancing himself from Ukraine.