“Entertainment During a War?” Olena Zelenska Explained Why Ukrainians Need Cultural Events

Ukrainians during the war continue to attend cultural events, and after sleepless nights from shelling they still go to fairs, theaters, and concerts. This was revealed by Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska in an interview with Elle Lithuania, as reported by Glavkom.

According to Zelenska, Ukrainian cultural life did not stop because of the war; on the contrary, it is active and developing.

“We noticed that throughout our entire period of resistance, theaters and cultural events have always been packed with spectators. Even after the most severe attacks, the same people who spent the night in shelters go to book fairs, to theaters, to concerts the next day. New cultural events emerge, even festivals. Most of them are connected with folk art and revival of traditions,” Olena Zelenska said.

Olena Zelenska does not view cultural events as “entertainment during the war.” The First Lady explained that for Ukrainians, cultural life helps support mental well-being. “What is this? Entertainment during a war? No. It’s a way to sustain spirit. A way to preserve a sense of normalcy within oneself. If you like, another form of therapy,” Zelenska said.

Olena Zelenska explained why Ukrainians need cultural events

photo: elle.lt

In addition, Zelenska spoke about education in Ukraine during the full-scale invasion. According to her, the ability to obtain knowledge also gives children a sense of normality during the war.

“When the full-scale invasion began, we were not sure whether it was worth continuing the school year for the children. After all, the danger was real. Yet we decided that war should not deprive them of the right to grow, develop, and have a normal childhood. For five years now, despite the invasion, children in Ukraine have been studying. Yes, it’s currently more challenging than in peacetime, and we openly acknowledge these difficulties. But children are learning, taking exams, and not long ago they even celebrated graduation. This is that sense of normality that every person should have,” the president’s wife noted.

In the comments on Elle Lithuania’s social networks, readers discussed the cover featuring Olena Zelenska. Among the commentators were foreign readers.

“She is so beautiful.”

photo: screenshot ellelithuania/Instagram

“Our incomparable lady.”

photo: screenshot ellelithuania/Instagram

“What a wonderful, expressive face… A beauty.”

photo: screenshot ellelithuania/Instagram

“A very powerful look. Respect to the photographer.”

photo: screenshot ellelithuania/Instagram

By the way, Olena Zelenska, Ukraine’s first lady, showcased a designer piece with special embroidery from her wardrobe. The president’s wife complemented her look with an accessory from a Ukrainian brand at the sixth ceremony awarding the honorary title ‘National Legend of Ukraine.’

Incidentally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska attended a state dinner in Paris during an official visit to France. The couple appeared in public in understated outfits.