President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed Ukrainians on the Day of Dignity and Freedom, describing the current period as one of the most challenging in the history of independent Ukraine. The Head of State emphasized the necessity of maintaining national unity, abandoning internal strife, and pursuing the diplomatic fight for a just peace.
The address was published on the President's official Telegram channel.
According to Zelensky, the nation currently faces serious challenges that could determine the future of its statehood. He warned that risks include not only a harsh winter but also the potential loss of support from key partners.
"Pressure on Ukraine is currently at its peak. Ukraine may face a very difficult choice: either a loss of dignity or the risk of losing a key partner. Either difficult 28 points, or an extremely harsh winter — the harshest yet — and further risks," the President stated.
The Head of State assured that Ukraine would continue active diplomatic engagement with the United States and European partners to ensure national interests are reflected in any peace processes. He emphasized that Kyiv would not allow Moscow to manipulate the situation.
"We will not give the enemy any reason to claim that Ukraine does not want peace, that we are disrupting the process, or that Ukraine is not ready for diplomacy. That will not happen. Ukraine will work quickly," Zelensky stressed, adding that he would fight to preserve the core pillars of the victory plan — the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians.
The President paid particular attention to the domestic political situation, calling on politicians and society to consolidate and end internal disputes.
"We need to pull ourselves together, come to our senses, stop the bickering, and end the political games. The state must function, the parliament of a warring country must work in unity, and the government of a warring country must work effectively," he said.
Zelensky also drew parallels with the start of the full-scale invasion, recalling attempts to pressure Ukraine into capitulation in the early days of the war. He reaffirmed his loyalty to his oath and his determination not to make concessions that threaten sovereignty.
"I remember how on the first day of the war, various envoys passed me different plans, points, and ultimatums regarding the end of the war... Many of those envoys became part of the exchange fund and were sent, along with their proposals and points, back home to their 'native harbor,'" the President concluded.
Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that by uniting, Ukrainians could withstand the pressure and achieve a "dignified, effective, and lasting peace."
