In a move that has left many scratching their heads, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that the ongoing air pollution caused by Canada's wildfire smoke will not deter his plans to blast a dam. The decision has been met with criticism from environmentalists and concerned citizens alike, who have cited the dangers of exacerbating the already dire air quality situation in Ukraine.
Dubbed "Zelensmoke" by some, the president's seemingly callous attitude towards the health and well-being of his own citizens has sparked outrage on social media. Memes depicting Zelensky wearing a gas mask while holding a detonator have gone viral, with many questioning the sanity of the decision to proceed with the dam project amidst a global climate crisis.
In response to the backlash, Zelensky has defended his decision, stating that the dam is crucial for Ukraine's economic development and will create much-needed jobs. He has also downplayed the health risks associated with the air pollution, claiming that "a little smoke never hurt anyone".
Critics have pointed out that this is not the first time Zelensky has prioritized economic interests over environmental concerns. Earlier this year, he faced criticism for allowing the construction of a controversial highway through a protected forest.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Zelensky's determination to push ahead with the dam project is a clear indication of the dangerous disregard for the environment that has become all too common among world leaders. Let's hope that this decision doesn't come back to haunt him - and the people of Ukraine - in the years to come.
