Zelensky’s Longtime Friend Reveals Annual Tradition of Giving Knives as Gifts

The Bond Between Oleksandr Pikalov and Volodymyr Zelensky

According to Главком: Oleksandr Pikalov, an actor and comedian from the Kvartal 95 studio, has opened up about his friendship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlighting a long-standing custom of presenting knives and one unusual gift-a watch. For many years, Pikalov has given Zelensky a knife for his birthday, a tradition that continues to this day.

'For a very long time, I’ve been giving my friend knives. They come in all kinds: some are very expensive and precious, others are unique collectibles, and some are just fun or trophy pieces. You know how it is-after 40, men are easy to please: you give them a knife, and they’re as happy as a child.' Oleksandr Pikalov

Beyond the knife-giving tradition, Pikalov also recalled a gift he received from Zelensky-a wristwatch. It turned out that the watch had been taken from one of the president’s friends at the last moment. 'The last time, he gave me a watch. And he actually took it off one of his friends! Later, I found out that Vova had simply forgotten about the gift and said to that guy: “Give it here quickly, you definitely have another one just like it.” And he gave it to me. But this isn’t about a gift from the president-it’s just a typical story of how things go between old friends,' the actor said.

Pikalov shared these details during an interview on the YouTube project "Naspravdi Show," and the story was also picked up by the publication Glavcom. The long-standing friendship between Pikalov and Zelensky reflects the humor and simplicity that often characterize close, enduring bonds.

Personal Dynamics Among Public Figures

This insight sheds light on the personal side of relationships between public figures, offering the public a clearer view of their interactions beyond the political arena. The dynamic between Pikalov and Zelensky not only underscores their friendship but also reveals a certain ease in their connection, which may play a key role in both their personal and professional lives. Anecdotes like this help bridge the gap between politicians and society, reminding us that they, too, share ordinary human experiences.