War – Wikipedia”>war-all-the-proposed-peace-plans-explained” title=”Russia-Ukraine war: All the proposed peace plans explained”>Ukraine‘s President Zelensky Sets 2025 as Year to End Wartime
Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared that Ukraine will do everything in its power to conclude the ongoing conflict by 2025, as stated in his New Year’s address. The message, distributed through the official presidential website, underscored the nation’s resolve to achieve peace.
"Let 2025 be our year, the year of Ukraine. We know that peace won’t be gifted to us. But we will do everything to halt Russia and bring this war to an end," Zelensky emphasized.
Addressing the Ukrainian people as "Strong. Free. Magnificent. Independent," the president expressed hope in their collective power to realize this goal.
Progress Towards a ‘European Ukraine’
Zelensky also expressed optimism about Ukraine’s continued progression towards a ‘European Ukraine.’ He recalled the launch of negotiations for Ukraine’s EU membership in June 2024 and his hope that one day, Ukraine will join NATO, enhancing the alliance’s strength.
"Only a strong Ukraine is respected and heard – on the battlefield and at the negotiating table," Zelensky asserted.
In their New Year’s greeting on Telegram, Zelensky and his wife, First Lady Olena Zelensky, hoped that 2024 would be another stride towards a Ukrainian victory.
Russian President Putin’s Military-Focused Address
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin dedicated a significant portion of his New Year’s speech to military themes, highlighting the upcoming 80th anniversary of the World War II victory and declaring 2025 as the ‘Year of the Fatherland Protector’ in Russia.
Putin touched on the concepts of sovereignty, historical significance, and Russia’s destiny, without specifying which achievements he considered notable.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Moscow enters its third consecutive New Year without fireworks, a decision made by city authorities in light of the war in Ukraine. Similarly, around ten Russian regions have implemented restrictions or bans on the use of fireworks.
With unwavering determination and international support, Ukraine pursues a swift resolution to the conflict, positioning itself as an integral part of Europe, while Russia remains focused on its military pursuits. As both nations enter 2025, the tide of their respective fortunes hangs in the balance.
