Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used his Christmas Eve address to express the fervent desire of his nation – the end of Vladimir Putin’s leadership – even as Russia continued its attacks on Ukraine. The address came amid ongoing discussions regarding a US-led peace plan, though a peace deal remains elusive. Despite calls for de-escalation, Russia launched a massive drone strike on Wednesday, underscoring the challenges to achieving lasting peace in the region.
Christmas Amidst the Russia-Ukraine War
Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainians, as they observe the traditional opening of the heavens on Christmas night, share a single, powerful wish. He alluded to a desire for Putin’s demise, stating, “’May he perish,’ each of us may think to ourselves,” but emphasized that the ultimate prayer is for peace for Ukraine. This sentiment reflects the deep-seated frustration and suffering endured by the Ukrainian people since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
However, Russia has consistently disregarded calls for Christmas ceasefires, instead utilizing the period for intensified military action. In 2022, a major missile and drone attack targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during the Christmas season, causing widespread disruption and civilian casualties. Similarly, in 2023, four people were killed in Kherson due to Russian drone strikes while Ukraine officially celebrated Christmas on December 25th for the first time.
This year followed the pattern, with Ukraine reporting 131 drones launched by Russia on Christmas Eve. Regional authorities confirmed two deaths and 35 injuries across multiple areas, including Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, and Sumy. Zelenskyy acknowledged this history of aggression, noting that this marks the fourth year of the full-scale war where Russia has attempted to diminish the spirit of the holiday.
Ongoing Peace Negotiations
The President’s address coincided with the unveiling of details surrounding a US-led peace initiative. According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine and the United States have reached a consensus on several key issues aimed at resolving the conflict, which has now stretched on for nearly four years.
Despite this progress, significant obstacles remain, particularly concerning territorial control in eastern Ukraine and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The Donbas region, encompassing Donetsk and Luhansk, is a central point of contention, with Russia demanding Ukraine cede control of areas it currently occupies – a demand Kyiv has firmly rejected.
Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson, indicated that the Kremlin would “take into account” the information communicated by Washington before formulating its response to the 20-point peace plan. This suggests a cautious approach from Moscow, but does not guarantee a willingness to compromise. The Council on Foreign Relations provides ongoing analysis of the conflict and related negotiations.
Zelenskyy concluded his address with a message of hope, expressing his belief in the eventual triumph of goodness and truth, and a peaceful future for Ukraine. He reiterated the importance of unity, stating that Ukrainians remain together regardless of physical distance or the challenges they face.
The situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile. The coming days will be crucial in determining Russia’s response to the proposed peace plan and whether a path towards de-escalation can be forged. Continued monitoring of developments on the ground and diplomatic efforts will be essential to understanding the future of the conflict and the prospects for a lasting resolution.
