After almost three years of war, the Ukrainian president begins the new year with a hopeful, but sober New Year’s message:
– We know that peace will not be given to us as a gift, but we must do everything we can to stop Russia and end the war, he says.
During the autumn, the US’s support for Ukraine has been in focus, as the issue divided Americans, and the House of Representatives, during the election. Surveys showed in September 2024 that 63 percent of Democrats believe that the United States has an obligation to help Ukraine, while the corresponding figure among Republicans is 36 percent.
President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly said that he could end the war in Ukraine within a few days. Zelenskyy is now firmly aware of that.
– I have no doubts that the new American president wants and can bring peace, and put an end to Russia’s aggression, he says.
Together, the two countries are capable of forcing Russia into a “just peace”, he believes.
Lost more territory in 2024 vs. 2023
According to an analysis by AFP, Ukraine has lost seven times more territory to Russia in 2024 compared to 2023. In his speech, Zelenskyy now believes that it is important that Ukraine shows resilience in order to win the respect – and support – of the outside world.
– Every day in the coming year, I and all of us must fight so that Ukraine can be strong. Only Ukraine will be respected and heard – both on the battlefield and at the negotiating table.