Daily Wire Editor Emeritus Ben Shapiro directly confronted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over serious allegations that Christians are facing persecution in Ukraine, marking one of the most consequential media moments of 2025.
The exclusive interview, originally published in April and now highlighted as one of the year's best stories, gave Zelensky the opportunity to respond to mounting concerns from American conservatives about the treatment of religious believers in his war-torn nation.
Shapiro Demands Answers
Shapiro, known for his no-nonsense interview style, didn't shy away from asking the Ukrainian leader the tough questions that mainstream media outlets have largely ignored. The conversation focused on accusations that the Ukrainian government has cracked down on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations with ties to Russia.
The interview also addressed Ukraine's controversial conscription policies, which have drawn criticism from some quarters for their aggressive enforcement as the nation continues its fight against Russian invasion.
"These are the questions that American taxpayers deserve answers to," Shapiro stated during the interview, reflecting the concerns of millions of conservative Americans who have questioned the billions in aid flowing to Ukraine.
A Turning Point In The Debate
The interview comes as the Trump administration has taken a more scrutinizing approach to Ukraine policy compared to the previous Biden administration, which provided largely unconditional support to Kyiv. President Trump has emphasized the need for accountability and a path toward ending the conflict.
American conservatives have increasingly demanded transparency about how U.S. aid is being used and whether American values, particularly religious freedom, are being upheld by recipient nations.
Zelensky's responses during the interview provided rare insight into his government's position on these contentious issues, though critics argue more action is needed to protect persecuted Christians.
Why This Interview Matters
The Shapiro-Zelensky exchange represents exactly the kind of journalism that conservative Americans have been demanding: direct questions to world leaders about issues that matter to faith-based communities and American taxpayers alike.
As 2025 draws to a close, this interview stands as a reminder that holding foreign leaders accountable remains essential, regardless of geopolitical alliances.