Zelensky responded to Putin's words about the alleged "illegitimacy" of the Ukrainian president

In response to Russian leader Vladimir Putin's statements regarding the alleged "illegitimacy" of Zelensky's presidency, he stated that Putin is the only person who recognizes the current Russian "president" as legitimate, while in Ukraine the president is elected by the people themselves.

“The Ukrainian people are the only ones who can recognize the legitimacy of President Zelensky. The Ukrainian people have made their choice, and I am grateful to them for their support. Our people are free. Frankly, that is what we are fighting for. The legitimacy of Comrade Putin is recognized only by Comrade Putin himself. Only Putin chooses Putin. The Russians are decorations, there is only one performer on the stage.”

Putin subsequently stated that “according to preliminary estimates, the only legitimate authority in Ukraine remains the parliament and the speaker of the Rada [Ukrainian parliament].”