Friedman asked the Ukrainian president to comment on rumors that he might be controlled by oligarchs, American politicians, or his Office head, Andriy Yermak.
"I am an ambitious person. I cannot be subordinate to anyone. I can live by rules and laws. I believe that this is the only thing that can control anyone today. It is the rules and laws of the society or the state you are in. And I think that is the most important thing. There is no person who could control me," Zelensky responded.
According to him, Ukrainian oligarchs who "controlled flows and people" and influenced politics have "fled or are in prison," and there are "specific examples" of individuals behind bars.
"I think this answers the question of influence. Would they like to influence me? Yes, as they would any president of Ukraine. Because finances and flows always impact politics. Well, at least they want to do that," Zelensky noted.
He added that one of the managers who carries out the president's tasks is Yermak.
"And I am pleased to have such people," Zelensky concluded.