KYIV – In a New Year’s address delivered late December 31st, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated his nation desires an end to the ongoing war, but not at the expense of its sovereignty. He affirmed he would not endorse a peace agreement he deems “weak,” believing such a deal would only serve to prolong the conflict.
Zelensky Addresses a Weary Nation
Speaking from his office, with a decorated tree visible in the background, Zelensky acknowledged the exhaustion felt by Ukrainians after nearly four years of war – a period he noted surpassed the length of the German occupation of many Ukrainian cities during World War II. Despite this fatigue, he emphasized Ukraine’s continued resolve.
“What does Ukraine want? Peace? Yes. At any cost? No. We want an end to the war but not the end of Ukraine,” Zelensky said during his 21-minute address, while wearing a dark green embroidered Ukrainian shirt. He firmly rejected the notion of surrender, stating, “Are we tired? Very. Does this mean we are ready to surrender? Anyone who thinks so is deeply mistaken.”
Zelensky stressed that signing “weak agreements only fuel the war,” and pledged his signature would only be affixed to a “strong agreement.” He indicated that all current diplomatic efforts – “every meeting, every phone call, every decision” – are focused on achieving this goal: “To secure a strong peace for everyone, not for a day, a week or two months, but peace for years.”
Diplomatic Progress and Remaining Obstacles
Zelensky revealed that US-led diplomacy, including recent talks with US President Donald Trump in Florida, has yielded a peace deal that is nearly finalized. He stated, “A peace agreement is 90 per cent ready, 10 per cent remains,” adding that this final 10 per cent “contains everything…the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe and how people will live.”
The primary point of contention remains the issue of territorial control. Russia currently occupies approximately 19 per cent of Ukraine’s territory in the south and east, and Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks Ukraine’s withdrawal from parts of the Donbas region that Russian forces have not yet captured. Kyiv, however, insists on maintaining current battle lines, dismissing Russian demands for a complete Donbas withdrawal as “deception.” Zelensky expressed skepticism about Russian intentions, stating, “Does anyone still believe them? Unfortunately, yes…Because too often the truth is avoided and called diplomacy when in fact it is simply lies dressed up in business suits.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ukraine’s position on a peace agreement?
Ukraine wants peace, but not at any cost. President Zelensky stated he will not sign a “weak” agreement that compromises Ukraine’s sovereignty or long-term security.
What is the current status of peace negotiations?
According to President Zelensky, a peace agreement is 90 per cent complete, with the remaining 10 per cent concerning critical issues related to territorial control and the future of the Donbas region.
What is the main obstacle to reaching a peace deal?
The main stumbling block is disagreement over the control of Ukrainian territory, specifically Russia’s demand for Ukraine to withdraw from parts of the Donbas region.
As negotiations continue, it is possible that further compromises will be sought from both sides. However, a final agreement will likely hinge on resolving the contentious issue of territorial control, and whether both Ukraine and Russia can agree on a definition of a “strong” and lasting peace.