Kathrine Frich
The president shared the purchase himself via Telegram.
The president shared the purchase himself via Telegram.
Zelensky Picks Up Book on Tyrannicide at Kyiv Book Fair
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska made headlines after their literary fair shopping trip, thanks to one book in particular.
The title? “Kill the Tyrant: A History of Tyranny from Caesar to Gaddafi.”
A Loaded Title: “Kill the Tyrant” Sparks Speculation
The book’s title alone turned heads across the globe. Authored by Italian academic Aldo Andrea Cassi, the historical analysis explores the lives and deaths of powerful men taken down by force, from Julius Caesar to Muammar Gaddafi.
Zelensky didn’t explain the purchase, but the optics were loud enough.
Putin Reference? Zelensky Has Called Him a Dictator Before
Throughout the war, Zelensky has publicly referred to Vladimir Putin as a dictator, holding him personally responsible for Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine.
While he didn’t say if the book choice was aimed at Putin, the message was widely read between the lines.
Zelenska Caught on Camera with the Book
Photos show Olena Zelenska flipping through the book, while Zelensky stood nearby.
The moment was carefully shared online, suggesting a deliberate nod to symbolism, especially as Ukraine marks over three years of bloody conflict and thousands of civilian deaths.
“Glad for such books”
He shared the photos on his twitter account as well, and in the text accommodating the photo he wrote:
“We are glad that Ukraine has such events, such books, and the people who create them”
His overall message in the posts centers around how important preserving the Ukrainian culture is.
Timing Matters: Peace Talks Loom, But So Do Doubts
Zelensky’s book pick comes just days before a proposed new round of peace talks in Turkey, scheduled by Russia.
Ukraine hasn’t confirmed if it will attend. The book purchase could signal ongoing mistrust or defiance toward Moscow’s overtures.
Kremlin Reaction? Not Yet, But It’s Coming
As of now, Russia hasn’t officially responded to the literary stunt, but given the context, it’s likely the Kremlin will interpret it as a provocation.
With propaganda and messaging playing a major role in the information war, every photo and every page counts.