Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a profound hope for peace in his New Year’s address, despite ongoing aggression from Russia, which launched over 200 drones at Ukraine as the new year began. The Ukrainian leader’s speech, delivered just before midnight, emphasized his deep sorrow that as 2025 commenced, the conflict initiated by Russia’s invasion persists.
“I would give anything in the world if, in this address, I could say that peace will also come in just a few minutes,” Zelensky stated. “Unfortunately, I cannot say that yet. But with a clear conscience, I, all of us, can say that Ukraine is truly doing everything for peace.” His remarks reflect both his determination and the stark realities facing Ukraine in the ongoing war.
Zelensky noted that a US-backed peace agreement is “90% ready,” with the remaining contentious issues stemming from Russia’s maximalist demands and its refusal to engage in meaningful concessions. “Those are the 10% that will determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe, how people will live,” he explained. His emphasis on the critical ten percent highlights the potential to save millions of lives and the need for collective determination and unity from Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and the global community.
The Ukrainian president’s address followed discussions with Donald Trump‘s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, regarding the peace negotiations and future security for Ukraine. Witkoff later communicated on social media about their dialogue, stating, “We focused on how to move the discussions forward in a practical way on behalf of @POTUS’ peace process, including strengthening security guarantees and developing effective deconfliction mechanisms to help end the war and ensure it does not restart.”
As diplomatic efforts continue, the violence escalated on the ground, with Russian forces targeting Ukraine during the New Year celebrations. According to reports from Kyiv’s military, the drone assault resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals. Ukrainian air defense systems successfully intercepted 176 drones, with 24 strikes confirmed to have impacted 15 locations across the country.
Adding to the tension, Russia reiterated claims that Ukraine attempted to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin during a drone strike in December. Ukraine has firmly denied these allegations, and multiple reports indicate that the CIA has assessed the claims as unfounded.
Zelensky’s New Year address encapsulates the ongoing struggle for peace amid relentless conflict, underscoring the urgent need for resolution and the collective effort required from the international community to achieve lasting stability.
