One of the leaders of the Donetsk People’s Republic. Participated in the seizure and occupation of the regional administration in Donetsk in 2014. Active spokesperson for the separatists. Until 4 September 2015 so-called Deputy Chairman of the “People’s Council” of the so-called “Donetsk People’s Republic”. Since 4 September 2015 “Chairman” of the “People’s Council of the Donetsk People’s Republic”. So-called 'acting Head of the Donetsk People's Republic' after 7 September 2018. So-called 'Head of the Donetsk People's Republic' following the so-called elections of 11 November 2018.