Ukraine President Zelensky’s New Years Eve message of valor resounded in Ukrainian homes, in the bunkers on the frontlines, and echoed around the world.
Ukraine
I listened to him talk from the safety of my home in Canada with the memories of my time in Ukraine.
Zelensky and his speechwriters never really disappoint, but the New Year’s Night address of 2022-2023, the first one of the full-scale war with Russia, IMHO, remains unequalled. One of the greatest wartime speeches.
“Behind me stands Mother Ukraine. Ukraine that stands firmly on its feet, does not bow its head, looks ahead, believes in its future and victory over all the evil that Russia has brought us. Ukraine that is capable of achieving a just peace – having a shield and a sword. Defending its people, its colours, its Independence. Today I address all those who value Ukraine, cherish their state, and lovingly call it “Mine.”
The names of the defenders of Ukraine killed in action were projected on the statue as Zelensky spoke.
“I thank you for 2024. Our people who endure all difficulties with dignity. People for whom being citizens of Ukraine is a source of pride. And for me, it is a pride to be the President of such people – Ukrainians who prove that no cruise missile can defeat a nation that has wings.”
Valor
“We lived through this year together. We overcame everything 2024 brought together. Victories and setbacks. Joys and challenges. Tears of happiness when we succeeded. And tears of pain when our hearts were wounded.”
“July. Morning. Okhmatdyt. That’s how weaklings and cowards strike. And we will never forget those children’s eyes. We will never forgive them for this! When evil brings death, our response is a human chain.”
In July, Russia launched a missile attack on the premiere Children’s Hospital in Europe. 27 civilians, including four children, were killed, and 117, including seven children, were injured. 
“This is what the strength of Ukrainians looks like. And that unity of ours could be seen from space. God saw it. He saw what kind of people we have. What kind of children we have. And I will never forget those incredibly mature and strong eyes of the boy from Okhmatdyt. How much life is in him, energy and dignity! And how much stronger this child alone is than Putin!”
Valor
“How much stronger all our children are than their entire evil. Ukrainian boys and girls who are winning this war, gaining knowledge online and even in underground schools, winning global science competitions, raising funds for our army, and inventing technological solutions that help with our defense. You are a phenomenal generation! This is who we are fighting for. This is who our heroes, our warriors, protect above all. Those who stand firm and carry Independence on their shoulders.”
“Where freedom and valor fight every day – even now, on this New Year’s night.”
He concluded, “May 2025 be our year. The year of Ukraine. We know that peace will not be given to us as a gift. But we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war. This is what each of us wishes for.”
Watch his message here.
Read the transcript here.
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