### Zelenskyy Rejects Surrender, Insists on Strong Peace Deal in New Year's Address
KYIV, Ukraine – In a resolute New Year's address to the world, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined firm red lines for any potential peace agreement with Russia, emphasizing that Ukraine seeks an end to the ongoing conflict but not at the expense of its sovereignty or existence.
"What does Ukraine want? Peace? Yes. At any cost? No," Zelenskyy stated. "We want an end to the war but not the end of Ukraine." He acknowledged the toll of the prolonged war, admitting, "Are we tired? Very. Does this mean we are ready to surrender? Anyone who thinks so is deeply mistaken."
Zelenskyy warned against hasty or weak settlements, asserting, "Any signature placed on weak agreements only fuels the war. My signature will be placed on a strong agreement." He highlighted that current diplomatic efforts are centered on achieving a durable resolution, adding, "That is exactly what every meeting, every phone call, every decision is about now: to secure a strong peace, not for a day, a week or two months, but peace for years."
The address comes amid reports of intensified negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking from Florida, indicating that a peace agreement is nearing completion. "A peace agreement is 90 percent ready," Trump said. "That 10 percent contains everything. It will determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe." Territorial disputes remain the primary unresolved issue, according to sources familiar with the talks.
In a parallel New Year's message, Russian President Vladimir Putin maintained a defiant tone, reassuring frontline soldiers that Moscow remains confident in its ultimate victory in Ukraine, despite the conflict entering another year.
While there is widespread hope that 2026 will usher in peace and prosperity for both nations, recent developments cast doubt on the prospects for a ceasefire. Russian claims of an attack on Putin's residence, coupled with the ensuing reactions, appear to have diminished the likelihood of an imminent deal.$TRUMP $
