Rinat Akhmetov, Ukraine’s wealthiest individual, has disclosed that his last meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky occurred on February 23, 2022, just before the onset of the Russian invasion. In a recent interview, Akhmetov praised Zelensky’s leadership, describing him as a “brave man with a strong character.”
Akhmetov stated, “Since that time, we have not met; he knows I am constantly in Ukraine and have not left, and I believe he is aware of what I am doing to support Ukraine. Therefore, our relationship has not been strained since then.” He emphasized the resilience of the Ukrainian people and military, attributing their endurance to both the support of the international community and Zelensky’s steadfastness.
He expressed gratitude for Zelensky’s presence during the crisis, noting, “He did not flee; he stayed here with us and demonstrated himself to be a brave man with a strong character. He is doing everything he can to protect our sovereignty, independence, and freedom.”
Akhmetov arrived in Kyiv on February 23, 2022, to attend a meeting organized by Zelensky for business leaders. During the meeting, he was asked what he would do if a full-scale invasion began the following day. He responded, “I will stay in Ukraine and will not leave; I will help our military hold strong and assist the civilian population in surviving.” He believes he has upheld that promise.
In the interview, Akhmetov also mentioned that following the invasion, he maintained communication with Brigadier General Denis Prokopenko, the commander of the Azov defenders during the defense of Mariupol.
Rinat Akhmetov reflects on his last meeting with President Zelensky before the Russian invasion, praising the president's leadership and his commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty. Akhmetov emphasizes his ongoing support for the country amidst the ongoing conflict.
Source: The Guardian