Amidst ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used his Christmas Eve address to articulate a widely held sentiment within Ukraine regarding Vladimir Putin [[1]], [[2]], [[3]]. Delivered as Ukraine marked its third Christmas on December 25th following a shift from the Julian calendar, Zelenskyy’s message reflects the profound impact of the war and the Ukrainian people’s enduring desire for peace. While framing the wish for Putin’s end as a personal thought, the President ultimately emphasized the collective Ukrainian hope for a peaceful resolution to the war.The speech underscores the emotional toll of the conflict as it nears its second year.
Zelensky Expresses Hope for Putin’s Demise in Christmas Address
In a Christmas Eve address to the Ukrainian people, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voiced a sentiment shared by many in his nation – a wish for the end of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The statement comes as Ukraine continues to defend itself against the ongoing Russian invasion, a conflict that has dramatically reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe. Zelenskyy did not name Putin directly, but referred to a “dream” held by all Ukrainians: “That he would die.”
“We celebrate Christmas at a difficult time. Unfortunately, not all of us are home tonight. Unfortunately, not all of us still have a home. And unfortunately, not all of us are with us tonight,” Zelenskyy said in his televised address. “But despite all the suffering brought by Russia, it is unable to occupy or bombard what is most important. This is our Ukrainian heart, our mutual trust, and our unity.”
He continued, “Today we all share one dream. And we express one wish, for all of us. ‘That he would die,’ each of us might think to ourselves. But when we turn to God, of course, we ask for something greater. We ask for peace for Ukraine. We fight for it. And we pray for it. And we deserve it.”
This year marks the third time Ukraine has observed Christmas on December 25th, aligning with the Western Gregorian calendar. The shift, made two years ago, moved the country away from the Julian calendar traditionally used by many Orthodox churches, including the Russian Orthodox Church, which celebrates Christmas on January 7th. The move was seen by some as a symbolic break from Russian influence.
The Ukrainian leader’s address underscored the continued resolve of the Ukrainian people despite the hardships of war, and the deep-seated desire for an end to the conflict. The development highlights the enduring impact of the war on Ukrainian society and its cultural identity.
