1-1-2024 (KYIV) Delivering a defiant New Year’s address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy vowed 2023 would see Russia feel the “wrath” of bolstered Ukrainian forces, warning the enemy not to underestimate Kyiv’s capabilities and willpower.
In a televised speech just days after Russia’s deadly missile barrage across Ukraine, Zelenskyy said the coming year would bring at least one million new drones and Western fighter jets to Ukraine’s arsenal. This domestic military buildup will exact vengeance next year, he declared.
The bold pronouncements aim to dispel any notion Ukraine’s resolve is weakening as the war grinds on. Zelenskyy cautioned that despite some “attempts to undermine global solidarity,” Ukrainians are growing even stronger.
His fiery rhetoric contrasted with a subdued holiday message from Russian President Vladimir Putin that avoided mentioning the conflict at all.
Zelenskyy’s projection of fortified defenses comes after Ukraine’s stalled counteroffensive in late 2022 exposed remaining vulnerabilities that Russia exploited. The Kremlin subsequently secured gains around Marinka and Kupiansk.
But with Western arms continuing to pour in, Kyiv hopes new weapons systems will break the battlefield deadlock in 2023. Zelenskyy’s New Year’s show of defiance sent an uncompromising signal that Russia cannot wait out Ukrainian resistance.
Rallying domestic morale remains crucial as the war’s human and economic toll mounts. While international backing is vital, Zelenskyy implied Ukraine’s fate ultimately lies in its own hands. Defenders and civilians alike must steel themselves for more bloodshed ahead.
His rallying cry portends a potentially grinding new year of combat. But resolute belief in victory remains Kyiv’s defining feature as Ukraine heads into the fight of its life.
