Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently expressed that he and US President Donald Trump share core values and similar leadership traits, which are influenced by their outsider statuses and backgrounds in business. Speaking to the New York Post in Kyiv, Zelenskyy emphasized the connection between himself and Trump, stating, "We are the choice of our people . and we definitely share the same values with our people," referring to the importance of freedom, family, and homeland.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy elaborated on these shared values by stating, "Our most important values, family things - I think the American people perceive it the same way, and that's why the American people support Ukraine." Zelenskyy, a former comedian and producer, noted that he, like Trump, did not come from a traditional political background. He remarked, "I don't work in a linear way," emphasizing the importance of adaptability and quick decision-making in leadership.

Zelenskyy further explained that his approach to crisis management and leadership relies on speed and flexibility, rather than bureaucratic processes that can be time-consuming. He linked this mindset to Ukraine's swift transformation in defense, particularly in the development of the drone sector. He pointed out that private sector involvement in defense increased significantly under his leadership, rising from almost zero to 70%.

The comments come amid evolving relations between Kyiv and Washington during Trump's presidency, with a focus on strategic cooperation and joint weapons production.