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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy used his New Year address to clearly state that Ukraine wants the war with Russia to end, but not at the expense of its sovereignty or future security. Speaking late Wednesday from his office in Kyiv, with a New Year tree behind him, Zelenskiy emphasized that while Ukrainians are exhausted after nearly four years of war, they are not prepared to surrender or accept a fragile peace.
In his 21-minute televised speech, Zelenskiy acknowledged the immense toll the conflict has taken on the nation, noting that many Ukrainian cities have endured a longer period of war than they did during the German occupation in World War Two. Despite the fatigue, he stressed that Ukraine remains determined to defend its independence and territorial integrity.
Zelenskiy firmly rejected the idea of signing what he described as a “weak” peace agreement, warning that such deals would only prolong the conflict. He said Ukraine seeks peace, but “not at any cost,” adding that ending the war must not mean the end of Ukraine itself. According to the president, any agreement he signs must be strong, durable, and capable of securing long-term stability for Ukraine and Europe.
The Ukrainian leader revealed that weeks of U.S.-led diplomatic efforts have brought a potential peace deal close to completion. He referenced recent talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida, saying the agreement is “90% ready,” with the remaining 10% being decisive for the future of Ukraine, Europe, and regional security.
The primary obstacle remains territorial control. Russia currently occupies around 19% of Ukraine’s territory in the south and east. While Kyiv wants the front lines frozen at their current positions, Moscow continues to demand that Ukraine withdraw from parts of the eastern Donbas region that Russian forces have not fully captured. Zelenskiy dismissed these demands as deceptive and accused Russia of masking falsehoods as diplomacy.
Reiterating Ukraine’s position, Zelenskiy said true peace must last for years, not weeks or months, and must be based on strength, honesty, and respect for international law.
