Volodymyr Zelensky’s Religion: Jewish, With a Soviet Secular Upbringing

Volodymyr Zelensky is Jewish. He grew up in a non-observant Soviet Jewish family in Kryvyi Rih, and has said: “I never speak about religion… Of course, I believe in God. But I speak with him only in those moments which are personal for me.”

What Religion Is Volodymyr Zelensky?

Zelensky is Jewish by family and identity. He has described his childhood as an ordinary Soviet Jewish upbringing, meaning religion was not practised at home under Communism.

A Family Marked by the Holocaust

The Washington Post and Ukraine’s presidential website have described how his great-grandfather and several of his grandfather’s brothers were murdered in the Holocaust, while his grandfather fought in the Red Army. Days before his 2019 inauguration, Zelensky laid flowers on his grandfather’s grave.

"Of Course, I Believe in God"

Zelensky has said he doesn’t talk about religion or God publicly because his views are personal, but that he believes in God and speaks with him in private moments. As president he governs a mainly Orthodox Christian country and has been careful to present himself as president of all Ukrainians.

FAQ

Is Zelensky Jewish?

Yes.

Does Zelensky believe in God?

Yes, he has said so, while keeping his faith personal.

Did Zelensky's family die in the Holocaust?

His great-grandfather and several relatives were murdered in the Holocaust.

Related Celebrities

• Benjamin Netanyahu's religion
• Vladimir Putin's religion
• Nayib Bukele's religion
• Kristi Noem's religion

Sources

1. The Washington Post: Ukraine's Jewish president lost family in the Holocaust
2. President of Ukraine: Zelenskyy told the story of his family
3. My Jewish Learning: Volodymyr Zelensky
4. The Jerusalem Post: 18 things to know about Volodymyr Zelensky

Last updated: September 24, 2026.