Introduction

> Opening the Kyiv airport would be a game-changer, symbolizing a return to normalcy, and I envision a day when even President Trump might touch down, showing that the world is united in supporting Ukraine. Trust is paramount; we've been fighting not only a war but also a battle against misinformation about our integrity. "In most cases, we did not receive money, we received weapons," and it's crucial that everyone knows we fiercely crack down on those who try to exploit the situation for profit. Now, more than ever, we are dedicated to defending Ukraine’s honor and transparency.

Introductory words from Lex

> War changes everything, even the way we communicate. In navigating conversations with different languages, we chose to speak in Russian, Ukrainian, and English to bridge divides and complexities of language during conflict. Language is not just a tool; it holds power to shape understanding and perspectives.

> History shapes our present reality. From the Orange Revolution to the annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in the Donbas region, understanding the geopolitical complexities of Russia-Ukraine relations is crucial in seeking paths to peace. Ceasefire and peace negotiations are challenging but essential endeavors that demand persistence and dedication.

> Finding humanity in the midst of turmoil is key. Beyond power dynamics and political affiliations, every individual embodies a spectrum of good and evil. Seeking to understand and highlight the shared humanity in others, even amidst chaos and conflict, is a value that transcends borders and ideologies.

Language

> Ukrainian identity is non-negotiable; "the people who attack us speak Russian" and their weaponized language cannot dilute the truth that we are "not one nation." This ongoing war challenges everything we hold dear and defines our desire to protect our freedom and human choice.

> Despite the brutality we've faced, I believe in connection and dialogue; "I hope that today many Russians will hear this" and that we can share truths, even if communication is not perfect.

> Odessa is a symbol of our resilience and spirit, with "authentic cuisine," beautiful people, and a vibrant culture that shines through adversity. I cherish every visit, as it represents not just a city, but the heart of Ukraine.

World War II

> My grandfather's experiences during World War Two have deeply shaped my understanding of the war's impact. His silence on the horrors of the war spoke volumes about its tragic nature and the lasting wounds it left behind, not just for him but for all of humanity.

> Reflecting on the historical context of World War Two, I emphasize the importance of recognizing the early signs of conflict and the rise of radical ideologies like fascism. The world's failure to address these warning signs led to the catastrophic events that unfolded, underscoring the critical need to learn from history and prevent such tragedies from repeating.

> As I faced the recent invasion of my country, the echoes of history rang loud. Despite seeking support and issuing warnings, the lack of timely action and solidarity from the international community left us vulnerable. In moments of crisis, the burden of leadership demanded a sacrifice of personal roles for the greater duty to protect and lead the nation.

Invasion on Feb 24, 2022

> Everything changed on February 22nd; that morning, I had to be decisive. As the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, I faced a situation that required immediate action. My instincts kicked in—I thought, "Help is needed right now." We distributed weapons to ordinary people in the streets, understanding that if the Russians entered the city, the consequences would be dire. It was crucial to unite everyone and ensure that we could deliver food, support, and information, even in the face of invasion.

> Communication became vital. I leveraged my experience in media to quickly establish an information network. Addressing the nation became a daily task—three to five times a day—because the people needed to know the truth amidst the disinformation. I stood in the streets, assuring everyone that I was there, in the reality of the moment. By doing so, I aimed to instill trust and resilience in the face of adversity, telling the Russian people directly, "You must stop Putin," and encouraging them to stand against this horror.

Negotiating Peace

> It's crucial to speak with those who listen and when it can benefit peace and world calm, not just for the sake of talking.

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> Peace through strength is essential; being strong allows us to negotiate effectively. Ukraine must be strong for peace to be achieved. Strength can pressure adversaries to stop conflicts.

> Past agreements for ceasefire were broken, leading to continued conflict. Sustained peace requires not just talk but concrete actions and security guarantees to prevent further aggression.

> To secure lasting peace, a strong Ukraine position, NATO membership, arms aid, and consistent support are vital. Without adequate security guarantees, the risk of future conflicts remains imminent.

NATO and security guarantees

> Ukraine's territorial integrity is non-negotiable, and despite the ongoing challenges with NATO, the idea of "inviting Ukraine into NATO minus certain regions" represents a potential diplomatic path towards ending the war. "All those territories are still Ukraine," and we must negotiate from a position of strength.

> The unity of the West is vital when it comes to arms aid and sanctions against Russia. "It depends on the willingness of the United States," and without collective support from both the U.S. and the EU, we risk losing the momentum needed to deter Russian aggression.

> Justice is essential for healing post-conflict, and the lack of accountability will breed resentment. "If there is no justice and the killers are not punished," we risk an endless cycle of hatred and violence. NATO’s role isn't just about defense; it’s crucial for ensuring peace and stability for all involved.

Sitting down with Putin and Trump

> Negotiating a ceasefire without NATO involves starting discussions with Trump to stop the war in Ukraine, followed by engaging with Europe for support and then approaching Russia for security guarantees.

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> Emphasizing the critical need for security guarantees, referencing the Budapest Memorandum where Ukraine gave up nuclear weapons in exchange for assurances that have not been upheld by the signatory countries.

> Expressing hope in Trump's ability to influence Putin to prevent further conflict, highlighting the importance of Trump's vision and the potential consequences if Putin feels emboldened after Trump's term.

> Exploring the limitations of European armies in countering Russian aggression and proposing alternative partnerships with countries like India and Saudi Arabia for protection, while cautioning against the impact of North Korea's autocratic regime in military readiness.

Compromise and leverage

> I've come to understand that the route to real security isn't just about artillery rounds; it’s about forming powerful partnerships. The idea of leveraging “300 billion in frozen Russian assets” is crucial – we can use that to bolster our defenses and buy the military support we need from America. This isn’t about asking for handouts; it's a matter of investing in a collaborative future where Russian money pays for rebuilding and fortifying Ukraine.

> Another insight is that forgiveness is simply not on the table when it comes to the atrocities committed against us. “Murderers cannot be forgiven.” The loss inflicted by this war is far too deep to ask for understanding or compassion. We owe it to those we've lost to ensure their memory drives our resolve to strengthen Ukraine against any future aggression.

Putin and Russia

> My conversation with Lex brought to light the stark contrast between Putin's actions and genuine love for his country. From sending young soldiers to various conflicts to his questionable definition of loving his people, it's evident that his priorities lie elsewhere.

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> Visiting the frontlines and engaging with soldiers and citizens across Ukraine is crucial for understanding the reality of war. Staying in Kyiv during challenging times is not just a duty, but a mark of true leadership that resonates deeply with people.

> Forgiveness between nations, like Ukraine and Russia, is a complex journey. History teaches us that acknowledging past wrongs, seeking forgiveness, making reparations, and establishing security guarantees are essential steps on the path to rebuilding relationships. Russia will need to confront its guilt and apologize before true reconciliation can begin.

Donald Trump

> Strength is essential, both in leadership and in a nation; Donald Trump demonstrated that he could project strength, which resonates with people when they seek stability and security in uncertain times.

> Understanding the gravity of Putin's war is crucial; it’s not just about territory but about Ukraine’s independence and future, as well as the dire consequences of allowing Putin to expand his influence across Europe.

> The fate of Europe is intertwined with Ukraine's resilience and a strong NATO; if the US withdraws its support, we risk a broader conflict that could threaten global security, underscoring the need for unwavering alliances against aggression.

Martial Law and Elections

> The essence of this war is our freedom. It goes beyond just fighting; it's about preserving our core values and the opportunities that freedom provides us, like being able to choose where to work and cherishing our loved ones. Despite the constraints of war and martial law, we strive to maintain a balance and protect the freedoms that are at the heart of our society.

> Elections in Ukraine have been impacted by the ongoing war, with a need to reevaluate voting systems and infrastructure to ensure trust and accessibility for all citizens. Holding elections immediately after the end of martial law is crucial to establish a democratic process once again, allowing for a new chapter in our nation's governance.

> While the future political landscape in Ukraine may see a diverse range of candidates, my focus remains on ending the war and achieving lasting peace. The ultimate goal is not about winning debates or elections but about securing a future where peace and stability can thrive for the benefit of all Ukrainians.

Corruption

> We have created "the most sophisticated anti-corruption system in all of Europe," demonstrating our commitment to transparency and reform. While it's true that "corruption exists in everyday life," we are determined to confront it openly and have taken significant steps against oligarchs, including imprisoning influential figures who once evaded justice.

> It's crucial to acknowledge the nuances of corruption, especially when it comes to international aid and weapon transfers. Questions need to be asked about "whose corruption?" and how money flows. As we navigate these complexities, we remain resolute in ensuring that support for our fight for freedom goes directly to those on the front lines, tackling misinformation and protecting our integrity.

Elon Musk

> Elon Musk is a remarkable self-made leader of innovations who has made a tangible impact in the world. I deeply respect his work and am grateful for initiatives like Starlink that have directly aided us during times of crisis, like in the war. His support has been invaluable, and I look forward to the possibility of him visiting Ukraine to see the situation firsthand.

> It's crucial for sustainable peace to prevail before considering the reopening of the Kyiv airport, with a focus on implementing effective air defense systems to ensure the safety of the people. I believe that when the time is right, notable gestures like President Trump potentially visiting Ukraine could hold powerful symbolism for the future.

Trump Inauguration on Jan 20

> It’s a tough decision for me to navigate the complexities of diplomacy while being mindful of the ongoing war. As I said, “I am the kind of person that cannot come without an invitation,” especially in these times when safety and security are paramount.

> Despite the challenges, I understand the importance of maintaining relationships and being present, but I won’t violate the principles I stand for when it comes to respect and protocols. The experience of wanting to just be myself—even during a meeting with President Trump, where I simply wanted to go for a run—reminds me that leadership is about authentic connections, not just the formalities that come with it.

Power dynamics in Ukraine

> I am a president who cannot be controlled by anyone but believes in living by rules and laws to uphold societal values. My family holds the most influence over me, especially my son, who I prioritize above all else. Oligarchs in Ukraine have faced consequences, including imprisonment, as no one can control the President, ensuring the integrity of our system. While finance can influence politics, I remain dedicated to serving my country independently. My team is crucial to our success, and I am grateful for their dedication.

Future of Ukraine

> The future of Ukraine depends heavily on digitalization; "we're the best in Europe" at it, and this innovation will not only enhance convenience but also eliminate corruption. With platforms like Diia, we can lead the way and even share our model with others post-war.

> Our cultural alignment with Europe is pivotal; it's a reflection of our people's choice. "We want peace," and while forgiveness may be a distant thought, we are committed to rebuilding our nation and creating opportunities for those who want to return and contribute meaningfully to our recovery.

Choice of language

> Speaking in Russian to President Zelenskyy directly was important to avoid the need for an interpreter and enhance understanding: "I tried to speak in Russian to the President instead of English, so that he can directly understand me without an interpreter." It was about making the conversation more personal and eliminating barriers.

> Behind the scenes, President Zelenskyy was described as funny, thoughtful, and kind-hearted: "President Zelenskyy was funny, thoughtful, and just a kind-hearted person." This personal insight highlighted the positive nature of the interactions during the interview.

> The process of translation and interpretation involved challenges, emphasizing the complexity and importance of language in communication: "Behind the scenes, off mic, on a personal level...our constant switching of languages and having a meta-discussion about language provided good insights as to the complexity of this fight for a nation's identity and sovereignty that Ukraine is going through." The nuances and difficulties of translation were acknowledged and discussed.

Podcast prep and research process

> The process of preparation is essential; "I realize that sometimes forgetting all of the details and the words needed to express them makes me sound simplistic and even unprepared." This reflects the deeper goal: uncovering fundamental ideas that resonate at various levels.

> Engaging with both supporters and critics is crucial; "If I'm regularly getting insights from a person, I will continue listening to them, whether I agree or disagree." This allows me to navigate perspectives with an open mind, aiming for honest dialogue.

> Embracing vulnerability in conversations is key; "I try to put my ego aside completely and do whatever it takes to have a good conversation and serve the listener." It’s about fostering an environment where authenticity can thrive, even amid the challenges of the interview process.

Travel and setup

> I always bring my Kinesis keyboard when traveling because it makes me more productive and helps me think freely without physical constraints. It's been a part of my life for over 20 years, bringing me simple joys that make it hard to leave behind.

> My travel setup is minimalist, except for sentimental items like my Kinesis keyboard. I use a Windows laptop with Linux through WSL for coding, and a bigger laptop with good specs for video editing on Adobe Premiere during longer trips.

Conclusion

> Gratitude fuels strength; every moment of support I've received means the world to me, reminding me that we are never alone in this fight for freedom and democracy.

> Connection is powerful; reaching out and building relationships is crucial, whether during times of peace or war—it's how we uplift one another and strengthen our resolve.