Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appeared to issue a veiled death wish against Russian President Vladimir Putin during his Christmas evening address to the nation, stopping short of naming him directly. His remarks came amid renewed Russian attacks on Ukraine during the Christmas period.
Referring to an old Ukrainian belief that “the heavens open” on Christmas night and wishes made at that time come true, Zelenskyy said Ukrainians shared a single hope this year. “Today, we all have one dream. And we make one wish for all of us — may he perish,” he said.
The statement followed a major Russian missile strike across several Ukrainian regions on Tuesday, just ahead of Christmas Eve. According to reports by The Independent, the attack killed at least three people and caused widespread power outages.
Fresh attacks were also reported on Christmas Day, with Russia launching 131 drones into Ukraine. While Ukrainian air defences intercepted most of them, around 22 drones hit targets across 15 regions, ABC News reported.
Condemning the timing of the strikes, Zelenskyy questioned Moscow’s claims of seeking peace. “On the eve of Christmas, the Russians once again showed who they truly are,” he said, adding that Russia used everything from ballistic missiles to Shahed drones and Kinzhal strikes. “This is how the godless strike looks,” he remarked.
Zelenskyy also called on Ukrainians to remain resilient in the face of continued attacks and paid tribute to those who have defended the country. He expressed gratitude to fallen soldiers and civilians who have suffered under occupation or been forced to flee their homes.
“For all our fallen heroes who gave their lives for Ukraine, for those driven into occupation or exile, and for everyone who is struggling but has not lost Ukraine within themselves — today we stand shoulder to shoulder,” he said. “We will not lose our way in the darkness.”