The New Year’s address by Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky lasted more than 20 minutes. In it, he asked Ukrainians to choose between leaving Ukraine and serving; the video appeared on his administration’s YouTube page.
“I know that one day every Ukrainian will have to ask himself the question: who am I? Make a choice about who he wants to be. Victim or winner? Refugee or citizen? – Zelensky noted, quoted by RBC. In his opinion, the main result of the year is that Ukraine has become stronger. The country was challenged, but “Ukrainians proved that they are stronger than cold and darkness”, that “they will overcome any shortage of electricity, because they do not lack resilience and courage.”
At the same time, in an address by Russian leader Vladimir Putin, which took 3 minutes 45 seconds, the head of state said that in 2023 Russia defended its national interests, security and freedom. According to him, the year will become part of history, “and we have to move forward, create the future.” Putin emphasized that the Russians “have proven more than once that they know how to solve the most difficult problems and will never back down.” The Russian leader also addressed the participants of the special operation, noting that the country is proud of its heroes and admires their courage.
Let us remind you that since February 24, Russia has been conducting a special military operation in Ukraine. Zelensky introduced martial law in the country and also announced general mobilization. Men aged 18 to 60 were banned from leaving the country. In 2023, a bill to tighten mobilization rules was introduced to the Verkhovna Rada, but the document caused a scandal, so they decided to finalize it.
Source: Rosbalt
Mario Twitchell is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his insightful and thought-provoking writing on a wide range of topics including general and opinion. He currently works as a writer at 247 news agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
