Zelensky, whose career started in show business, presses Hollywood for an appearance at the Oscars.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has dedicated most of his public appearances to appeals to Western nations for lethal weaponry to fight the Russians.

But Mr. Zelensky, who before he became Ukraine's president had starred in romantic comedies and performed stand-up routines, has also pressed for celebrities and artists to speak up for his country, in what aides say is a worthwhile effort to solidify Ukraine’s global soft power advantage over Russia.

His aides have lobbied the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which awards the Oscars, for a show of support at the ceremonies, which begin soon at 8 p.m. EDT. His efforts have won support from some celebrities, including Sean Pean, who was filming a documentary in Ukraine when the war started.

The show's producers have said they intended to commemorate the war’s toll but did not commit to a video appearance by Mr. Zelensky. Read more

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