King Carl XVI Gustaf began this year’s Christmas speech by giving a thought to Ukraine and its population.
– Between Sweden and Ukraine it is only 100 miles as the crow flies. Christmas is also celebrated there. But for many who live there, it is dark, cold and difficult.
– Parts of society’s infrastructure have been knocked out. People have been killed, injured, subjected to terrible suffering.
The king then went on to tell about the times he and the queen visited Ukraine. Among other things, the capital Kyiv and Gammalsvenskby, which according to the king was strongly affected by the Russian occupation.
– Therefore, today I want to send a special greeting to the residents of Gammalsvenskby. My thoughts and those of my family are with you and all your compatriots.
Will make demands on us all
The king also touched on the economic challenges which have already affected many Swedes and which do not appear to be diminishing.
– In front of us now lies 2023. A special year in several ways. We are facing significant challenges as a country. This will affect many, especially those with small margins. And it will make demands on all of us as citizens and as fellow human beings.
2023 will also be a royal jubilee year. In addition to the fact that it is 500 years since Gustav Vasa was elected regent, it is also 50 years since the king himself became Sweden’s head of state.
– It is a long time, stated the king.
As part of the jubilee, the king and the queen will visit all of Sweden’s counties.