Introduction: The Global Stage
The 21st century has witnessed a dramatic change in the way wars are fought. It is no longer just about tanks, planes, and soldiers on the battlefield; now, wars are also fought in boardrooms, in the media, and on social networks. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia is a perfect example of this new era: a struggle in which information, narrative, and perception are as important as weapons.
This book is not just a chronicle of the events that have shaken Ukraine and the world in recent years. It is an exploration of the hidden forces that have shaped this conflict: the hidden wealth in tax havens, the secret meetings in the halls of power, and the epic narratives that have turned a comedic actor into a symbol of resistance. It is the story of how Ukraine has become the battlefield of a much larger struggle: the battle for world order.
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Chapter 1: Zelensky, the Actor Turned Leader
Volodymyr Zelensky was not the typical presidential candidate. Before entering politics, he was known in Ukraine as an actor and comedian, famous for his role in the television series "Servant of the People," where he played a schoolteacher who accidentally becomes president. The irony was not lost when, in 2019, Zelensky won the real presidential elections in a landslide victory.
But Zelensky was not just an actor. He was a man with a vision: he wanted to change Ukraine, pull it out of corruption, and bring it closer to Europe. However, what he did not know was that his life was about to turn into a much larger movie than he had imagined. A movie in which not only he but also the world powers had a role to play.
The Construction of an Epic Figure
From the beginning, Europe saw in Zelensky something more than a president. They saw a symbol. A common man facing a giant: Russia. The narrative was irresistible: an actor turned leader, fighting for the freedom of his people against a powerful enemy. It was a story that could inspire the world, and Europe quickly took advantage of it.
But Zelensky was not naive. He knew that his image was being shaped by external interests. In an interview, he reflected on his role: "Sometimes I feel like the Che Guevara of this story. A symbol, an icon. But what happens when the symbol stops being useful? What happens when the movie ends?"
The Weight of the Comparison
The comparison to Che Guevara was not accidental. Guevara, the Argentine revolutionary, became a global icon, but his struggle ended in defeat. Zelensky knew that his fate could be similar: to become a symbol of resistance, but without achieving a concrete victory for Ukraine. It was a heavy burden, but one he was willing to bear.
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Chapter 2: The Meeting in the Oval Office
On September 20, 2023, Zelensky faced Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House. The meeting had been announced as an opportunity to discuss the future of Ukraine and the conflict with Russia. But what Zelensky did not expect was the pressure he would receive.
Trump's Pressure
From the beginning, Trump made it clear that his priority was to reach a peace agreement. But not just any agreement: one that benefited the United States, even if it meant Ukraine would have to make significant concessions. "You have to be realistic, Volodymyr," Trump said. "You cannot win this war alone. You need the United States on your side, and that comes at a cost."
Zelensky listened in silence, but he knew he could not accept the conditions Trump was proposing. Ceding territory to Russia was not an option, especially under pressure. At the end of the meeting, Zelensky stood up and said: "I cannot sign this. Not on these terms." And with that, he left the Oval Office without signing the agreement.
The Consequences
Zelensky's refusal did not go unnoticed. The next day, the United States announced a temporary suspension of arms shipments to Ukraine. It was a clear message: without the support of the United States, Ukraine would be in a much more vulnerable position against Russia.
But Zelensky was not willing to give up. He knew he had other allies, and he was determined to find them.
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Chapter 3: European Support, the British Loan, and Cryptocurrencies
Ukraine has $150 billion in daily cryptocurrency transactions.
In early 2021, Ukrainian civil officials reported holding over $2.6 billion in bitcoins, and a report stated that "the largest number of cryptocurrency owners work in municipalities, the Ministry of Defense, and the National Police.
After the tense meeting in Washington, Zelensky flew to Europe. There, he met with leaders of several countries, including King Charles of England. It was in London where he received news that would change the course of events: a loan of $2.8 billion from a British bank for Ukraine.
*The Message from Europe*
The loan was not just money. It was a message of support, a sign that Europe was willing to back Ukraine in its fight against Russia. But there was also advice: "Keep the United States close," European leaders told him. "You need their support if you want to win this war."
Zelensky nodded, but he knew it would not be easy. The United States had made it clear that their support came at a price, and Zelensky was not willing to pay it.
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(To be continued...)