Ben Stiller arrived in Ukraine to meet Volodymyr Zelenskyy after visiting Poland
The comedic screen star has undoubtedly influenced many actors, but he just met a guy who has recently become his “hero” — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The producer-director is in Europe as part of his duty as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador. He stopped by to see the comedian-turned-politician, whom he commended for his response to Russia’s invasion. After exploring the remains of Irpin, the Zoolander star met with Zelenskyy at his presidential office. Stiller was photographed wandering among the rubble of Russian-bombed towns.
“It’s one thing to see this destruction on TV or on social networks. Another thing is to see it all with your own eyes. That’s a lot more shocking,” Stiller said.
According to the official government website, Stiller discussed the problems of displaced Ukrainians with the president. Emergency supplies, blankets, and other items are being delivered by the United Nations organization on the ground.
UNHCR Representative in Ukraine, Karolina Lindholm Billing accompanied Stiller.
“What you saw in Irpin is definitely dreadful. But it is even worse to just imagine what is happening in the settlements still under temporary occupation in the east,” Zelenskyy told Stiller.
Stiller issued a statement the same day emphasizing how it’s everyone’s responsibility to help those affected by war.
“I’m here meeting people forced to flee their homes due to the war in Ukraine. People have shared stories about how the war has changed their lives — how they’ve lost everything and are deeply worried about their future,” Stiller said in a statement.
It’s not the first time Stiller has brought attention to the refugee crisis. The actor has collaborated with the UNHCR on various projects over the years, and in his most recent appearance, the Goodwill Ambassador appealed for immediate assistance for the world’s 100 million displaced people.
“Over the years I’ve had the chance to meet refugees and asylum seekers from around the world from Syria, Central America, Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Ukraine,” Stiller continued in the statement. “In so many parts of the world, war and violence devastate people and leave lasting traumatic effects. Wherever and whenever it happens, nobody chooses to flee their home.
“Seeking safety is a right and it needs to be upheld for every person. Protecting people forced to flee is a collective global responsibility. We have to remember this could happen to anyone, anywhere.”
Both men said they were honored to meet each other.