KYIV, Ukraine, Jan 1, (V7N) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signaled that 2024 will be a pivotal year in the fight to bolster Ukraine’s military position and prepare for possible peace negotiations with Russia, marking the third year of the devastating conflict.

In a national address, Zelensky emphasized the need for continued resilience and determination to counter Russia’s advances.

“Every day in the coming year, I, and all of us, must fight for a Ukraine that is strong enough. Because only such a Ukraine is respected and heard—both on the battlefield and at the negotiating table,” Zelensky stated.

He expressed hope for 2025 as a year of triumph for Ukraine, while acknowledging the arduous journey ahead: “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.”

Challenges and Support
The past year saw Ukraine losing significant territory to Russia, reportedly seven times more than in 2023, amid a relentless Russian offensive. Compounding these challenges, Ukraine faces uncertainty over future U.S. military and political support as Donald Trump prepares to assume the presidency.

The outgoing Biden administration rushed to provide nearly $6 billion in military and budget aid to Ukraine, aiming to bolster its defenses before Trump takes office later this month.

Trump has pledged to end the conflict within "24 hours" of assuming power, a promise that has raised concerns in Kyiv about potential pressure to cede territory currently controlled by Russian forces.

Despite these uncertainties, Zelensky expressed cautious optimism about the U.S.’s role in achieving peace, stating: “I have no doubt that the new American president is willing and capable of achieving peace and ending Putin's aggression.”

In a contrasting message, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his New Year’s Eve address, refrained from explicitly mentioning the ongoing war in Ukraine but commended Russian soldiers for their "courage and bravery," reinforcing Moscow’s narrative of resilience and strength.

As Ukraine braces for a challenging year, Zelensky’s call for unity and preparation underscores the nation’s resolve to withstand external pressures and secure a sustainable path to peace.

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