Ukraine and U.S. Edge Toward Deal

In a heartfelt address on December 23, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed a strong message of resilience and cooperation amid ongoing conflicts and negotiations. The president’s speech underlined Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to peace and detailed the nation’s ongoing engagements with the United States and the European Union towards reaching a conclusive agreement.

The day was marked by a Russian military strike targeting Ukraine’s energy sector, which resulted in casualties and significant damage. Despite these challenges, President Zelenskyy highlighted the efforts of repair crews working tirelessly to restore electricity ahead of Christmas, a time the Russians aimed to disrupt. “It is vital that the world sees this and understands that it cannot be left unaddressed,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing the need for continuous international support.

Discussions with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, were also covered in the address, touching upon the €90 billion aid package set to bolster Ukraine over the next two years. Furthermore, Zelenskyy mentioned fruitful negotiations with U.S. envoys, hinting at progress in drafting agreements that could lead to a final peace deal. The Ukrainian leader expressed gratitude towards international allies, including Finnish President Alex Stubb, for their unwavering support during these trying times.

In addition to diplomatic efforts, the address covered domestic initiatives such as the Winter Support program, which has seen nearly 18 million applicants, demonstrating the effectiveness of direct assistance programs. Zelenskyy’s speech not only reaffirmed Ukraine’s stance on peace and cooperation but also highlighted the broader implications of these efforts for global stability and unity.