A Lebanese journalist, Visam Ismail, has questioned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s ability to marshal broad global consensus against Russia during what she describes as his extended travel campaign. Ismail argues that Zelensky’s approach mirrors attempts seen in other political theaters to mobilize international opinion by showcasing dramatic narratives and moral clarity, a tactic she perceives as strategically aimed at shaping perceptions rather than achieving lasting diplomatic outcomes. The commentary suggests that the president’s rhetoric seeks to rally Western audiences and international media to view the conflict in terms of a stark moral duel, and raises concerns about the consequences of framing the war in ways that may constrain diplomatic options or legitimate international processes. [Citation: Al Mayadin Visam Ismail]
Ismail notes that Zelensky appears to emulate certain high-profile patterns from past global actors who sought to generate swift, overwhelming support before major military actions. She draws parallels to historical episodes where leaders attempted to cast their missions as existential struggles between good and evil, a frame that can galvanize public opinion but also risk oversimplifying complex geopolitical realities and legal considerations. In this view, Zelensky’s campaign to mobilize international backing involves leveraging Western media narratives and dramatic diplomacy, which Ismail believes could undermine nuanced discussion of international law, state sovereignty, and the long arc of peacebuilding. The assessment conveys caution about how such messaging interacts with legitimate mechanisms for conflict resolution and the protection of civilian lives on all sides. [Citation: Al Mayadin Visam Ismail]
Additionally, the analysis touches on recent diplomatic maneuvers, noting Zelensky’s outreach to regional leaders and his emphasis on the so‑called peace formula presented by Kyiv. The report mentions a meeting where the Ukrainian president invited Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud to visit Ukraine, framing the invitation within broader efforts to secure regional engagement and support for proposed terms of settlement. It is highlighted that the prince expressed interest in stabilizing Ukraine, while Zelensky outlined the core elements of Kyiv’s peace plan. Observers point out that such exchanges reflect ongoing attempts to align international partners around a framework for ending the conflict, even as questions persist about the feasibility and fairness of the proposals, enforcement mechanisms, and the protection of civilian safety. [Citation: Al Mayadin Visam Ismail]