President Zelenskiy: Peace for Ukraine Will Be Earned, Not Given

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy delivered a resolute New Year’s address on Tuesday, asserting that peace for Ukraine would not come as a gift but through unwavering determination to halt Russia’s 34-month-long invasion. In his 21-minute address, Zelenskiy expressed confidence in continued U.S. support while emphasizing that only a strong Ukraine could secure peace and global respect.

"We understand that peace will not be handed to us, but we will do everything necessary to stop Russia and end the war—something each of us longs for,"

 Zelenskiy declared. His speech featured visuals of Ukraine’s national blue-and-yellow flag, battlefield footage, and images of children, underscoring the resilience of the Ukrainian people.

Reflecting on his interactions with U.S. leaders, including President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, Zelenskiy conveyed optimism about America’s commitment to Ukraine. "I have no doubt that the new American president understands the necessity of ending Putin’s aggression to achieve peace," he stated.

Zelenskiy emphasized the nature of Russia's actions as outright aggression rather than a conflict requiring mediation. "This is not a street brawl where both sides must be pacified. It is full-scale aggression by a rogue state against a civilized one. Together with the United States, we have the strength to compel Russia toward a just peace."

He warned against trusting Russia, saying, "If today Russia shakes your hand, tomorrow the same hand may kill. Russians fear what they cannot understand—freedom."

The past year has been fraught with challenges for Ukraine. Russian forces have advanced in the eastern front, capturing villages in one of their fastest offensives since the war began. However, Zelenskiy highlighted Ukraine’s countermeasures, including incursions into Russia’s Kursk region, long-range drone strikes, and advancements in domestic weapons production.

"Every day in the coming year, we must work to ensure Ukraine remains strong," Zelenskiy affirmed. "Only a strong Ukraine earns respect—on the battlefield and at the negotiating table."

Zelenskiy reiterated that any resolution to the conflict must include security guarantees from Western allies and progress toward Ukraine’s membership in NATO, a prospect Russia staunchly opposes. Despite uncertainties, Zelenskiy remained optimistic about maintaining U.S. military support, even as former President Trump has criticized aid to Kyiv and pledged to seek a swift resolution to the war.

As Ukraine faces another year of conflict, Zelenskiy’s message was one of resolve and hope. "The fight for a strong Ukraine continues daily. Only such a Ukraine can secure the peace and freedom we all deserve," he concluded.