Zelensky bans pro-Russian opposition party as Zoolander actor fawns over him

President Volodymyr Zelensky's government has officially banned the pro-Russian opposition party, Opposition Platform — For Life, citing its very close ties with Putin and the Kremlin.

While this was taking place, Zelensky found time to meet with Hollywood celebrity Ben Stiller, who appeared exuberant at the meeting with the olive green t-shirt clad actor-turned-president.

According to RadioFreeEurope, the Administrative Court of Appeals No. 8 ruled on Wednesday that the Opposition Platform – For Life (OPZZh) would be banned from Ukraine, and that all its property and assets would be taken by the State Treasury.

The move is the final step in a sequence that began with the suspension of pro-Russian parties on March 20. OPZZh was by far the largest, holding 44 out of 450 seats in parliament.

The party's leader, Viktor Medvedchuk, was one of the richest men in Ukraine, and openly advocated for closer ties with Russia. As RFE reports, Medvedchuk had vacationed with Putin, and even made the Russian leader his daughter's godfather.

He was arrested in 2021 for treason and financing terrorism, and captured by state authorities in April of this year

While the banning of political parties was taking place, Zelensky found time to hang out with Hollywood celebrities, namely Ben Stiller, who spoke in glowing terms about the opportunity.

Stiller, who has assumed the role of UN goodwill ambassador, met with Zelensky on Monday to discuss the refugee situation in Ukraine.

During their meeting, Stiller fawned over the Ukrainian president, calling his speeches "inspiring," and at one point saying, "It's a great honour for me ... you're my hero!"

As RTE reports, the two also talked about Zelensky's acting career, where he most notably starred in a comedy where a high school teacher becomes president.

Zelensky has become a celebrity himself since war broke out. While he was well-known in Ukraine, the conflict has boosted him to worldwide fame.