Lessons in leadership from Ukraine

Issue 47: The role of identity leadership in fostering solidarity and collective action

“The fight is here. I need ammunition, not a ride.”

With these simple words, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declined Washington’s offer of personal rescue and a flight out of his country. As Russian troops closed in on Kyiv and other major cities, Zelensky rejected the prerogative of a head of government, to remove oneself from immediate danger in order to try to lead from afar. He stood his ground alongside his fellow citizens—an act of identity leadership that has rallied the Ukrainian people and inspired the world.

Shortly thereafter, he released this video (see below) from the streets of Kyiv surrounding by the leadership of the country. He was saying, and showing, “We are all here. Defending our independence.” These words and images were matched by the stories of brave of Ukranian men and women from all ages and walks of life who volunteered to take up arms against against Putin’s menacing military force.

The reason Zelensky videos and words seemed to resonate with his citi…