President Zelenskyy asserts Ukraine’s role as beacon of democracy in defending against terrorism

“It is in Ukraine that we must prove that democracies are capable of protecting life from all forms of terror,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a traditional address to the Ukrainian nation on January 2.

Dear Ukrainians!

I have just spoken to Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak, informing him of the consequences of today’s attack by Russian terrorists. So far this day, almost a hundred missiles of various types have been launched, and the enemy has planned their trajectories to cause as much damage as possible. This is an utterly premeditated terror. And just in the last few days – from December 29 till now – Russia has already used nearly 300 missiles and over 200 “Shahed” drones against Ukraine. No other state has ever repelled such attacks, combined ones: both drones and missiles, including air-launched ballistic missiles. Ten “Kinzhal” missiles have been shot down today alone.

I thank every warrior of our Air Force, every fighter of our mobile firing groups, every anti-aircraft gunner and all those across the globe already helping Ukraine with weapons to protect the skies. More air defense systems, more missiles for air defense is what directly saves lives.

And it is with our defense of the sky here in Ukraine that we must prove that democracies are capable of protecting life from all forms of terror. If we do not do this now in Ukraine, then, unfortunately, Russian terror will continue to spread across Europe and the world. The feeling of impunity among the Russian rulers, formed over decades of their unlimited power, has already caused many deaths and suffering. Russia must learn what accountability for destroying life is and what the power of defending life is.

I am grateful to the UK for its willingness to contribute to our air defense. In addition to defense cooperation and our joint actions in protecting against terror, we discussed with Prime Minister Sunak the work on security commitments for Ukraine and the implementation of the Peace Formula.

Full text of the address: Office of the President of Ukraine