The Ukrainian leader was blasted online for posing for the magazine with his wife amid the ongoing military conflict. In the midst of the military war with Russia, the most recent issue of Vogue, which featured a glossy photoshoot with Ukrainian President Zelensky and his wife Olena, had a mixed response online.
Despite the fact that the story mostly focused on Zelenska, the couple was photographed together for the article by renowned photographer Annie Leibowitz.
It’s titled: ‘Portrait of Bravery: Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska.’
Following the article’s release, conservative lawmakers and commentators used the picture session as justification for why the US should not have given Ukraine $40 billion in aid to support its war against Russia.
Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert tweeted: ‘While we send Ukraine $60 billion in aid Zelensky is doing photoshoots for Vogue Magazine. These people think we are nothing but a bunch of suckers.’
The article was written by Paris-based journalist Rachel Donadio. On Twitter, Donadio referred to the piece as: ‘One of the most moving and memorable assignments of my career.’
Zelenska told Vogue: ‘These have been the most horrible months of my life, and the lives of every Ukrainian.’
She went on: ‘Frankly I don’t think anyone is aware of how we have managed emotionally. We’re looking forward to victory. We have no doubt we will prevail. And this is what keeps us going.’
The former comedy writer added: ‘I like being backstage—it suited me. Moving into the limelight was quite difficult for me.’
Conservative activist Scott Presler tweeted: ‘Why did we send $54 billion to Ukraine, so Zelensky & his wife could pose for Vogue? You’re at war & you’ve got time for photo shoots?’
Texas Congresswoman Mayra Flores tweeted: ‘Biden: Let’s continue to send billions of dollars in foreign aid to Ukraine, they need it!’ She added: ‘Reality: The Zelensky family graces us with a photo shoot to be on the cover of Vogue magazine.’
Erwin said: ‘An outstanding profile. Olena Zelenska has done an incredible job representing her people, ensuring the world knows the story of women and children of Ukraine – and continuing to give voice to the many in need.’
Pro Ukrainian activist Val Voschevska posted an analysis of the photoshoot on an Instagram Post writing in part: ‘She is who she is and I love it. She looks like any of us after a long day at the office – the only difference is that her job is protecting her country from war.’
A Ukrainian citizen wrote in the comments section on Vogue’s official Instagram: ‘Thank you Vogue for bringing awareness about Ukraine from the voices of actual Ukrainians.’