Published: Less than 20 min ago
In his annual Christmas speech, King Carl XVI Gustaf sends a special greeting to all Ukrainians.
He also looks ahead to what could be a difficult year in Sweden, above all for those with small margins.
The king delivers his traditional Christmas speech from Stockholm Palace. In the speech, he addresses the ongoing war in Ukraine.
– Christmas is also celebrated there. But for many who live there, it is dark, cold and difficult. Parts of society’s infrastructure are knocked out. People have been killed, injured and subjected to terrible suffering.
The first time the King and Queen visited Ukraine, it was still part of the Soviet Union. During a later state visit in 2008, the royal couple traveled to Gammalsvenskby in the southern part of the country.
Now the king states that the Russian aggression has hit the village hard.
– It feels heavy to think about this.
He sends a special greeting to the residents.
– My thoughts and those of my family are with you – and with all your compatriots.
Significant challenges
The year ahead is a special year in several ways, according to the king.
– As a country, we face significant challenges. 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.
But 2023 is also an anniversary year, says the king. June 6 marks 500 years since Gustav Vasa was elected king.
– And in September, I myself had the privilege of being Sweden’s head of state for 50 years. Yes, it is a long time.
“Joy and hope”
During the year, a round trip awaits the royal couple to all of Sweden’s counties, something that the king is very much looking forward to.
– My hope is that many of you will participate. Because this anniversary is about Sweden. About Sweden at the time.
The speech ends with a few lines from the hymn Härlig er jorden, which was sung during the royal couple’s visit to Gammalsvenskby.
– Regardless of how you celebrate your Christmas, I hope it can give you a moment of peace and quiet and reflection. And that you can fast on what gives you joy and hope.