Bizarre interview nothing more than disingenuous propaganda

Source: Kelen McBreen

CNN Senior International Correspondent Matthew Chance spoke exclusively with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday, as the nation's leader deals with a Russian conflict that could spark the next World War.

Zelensky, a comedian and actor who played the role of the Ukrainian President in a television show before being elected to the actual position, found time to chat with the left-wing American outlet despite being so busy.

The CNN journalist described being escorted to a secret bunker in Kiev to conduct the interview.

CNN asked Zelensky how negotiations between Ukraine and Moscow are going, and he responded, "You have to speak first of all. Everybody has to stop fighting and to go [back] to that point from where it began five, six days ago. I think there are principal things you can do … If you do this, and that side does this, it means they are ready for peace. If they (are not) ready, it means you're just wasting time."

Asked if he is wasting his time or if Russia is ready to talk, Zelensky smirked and said, "We'll see."

When the president was questioned on his ascension from an actor playing the Ukrainian leader to becoming the real thing, Zelensky noted, "It's very serious, it's not a movie … I'm not iconic, I think Ukraine is iconic. Ukraine is the heart of Europe, and now I think Europe sees Ukraine is something special for this world. That's why [the] world can't lose this something special."

Before speaking with CNN on Tuesday morning, Zelensky addressed the European Parliament and was given a standing ovation.

The Ukrainian leader pleaded for his nation to be accepted into the EU on an expedited process.

"I don't read from paper, the paper phase is over, we're dealing with lives. Without you, Ukraine will be alone. We've proven our strength; we're the same as you. Prove that you'll not let us go. Then life will win over death," Zelensky told the EU representatives.

"This is the price of freedom. We are fighting just for our land. And for our freedom, despite the fact that all of the cities of our country are now blocked. We are fighting just for our land and our freedom," Zelensky continued, causing an EU English translator to choke up with tears. "We desire to see our children alive. I think it's a fair one."

Concluding his speech, Zelensky said, "Every square today, no matter what it's called, is going to be called Freedom Square, in every city of our country. No one is going to break us. We are strong. We are Ukrainians," before dramatically raising his fist into the air.

In addition to his acting career, Zelensky is also quite the dancer, competing in Ukraine's version of "Dancing With The Stars" and performing in a controversial parody music video while wearing leather and high heels.