Zelenskyy praises “sense of unity” in 1st speech of 2023

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized “unity” on New Year’s Eve.
• He contrasted it with “just dread” in Russia.
• Zelenskyy praised Ukraine for downing 45 Iranian drones on NYE.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used his first address of the year to underline the “sense of unity” in the country, and contrast it with the “fear” he said is felt in Russia.

“Our sense of unity, authenticity, life itself – all this contrasts dramatically with the fear that prevails in Russia,” said Zelenskyy in an address published Sunday evening local time.

“They are afraid. You can feel it. And they are right to be afraid. Because they are losing. Drones, missiles, anything else will not help them. Because we are together. And they are together only with fear.”

Zelenskyy commended Ukrainian soldiers for downing 45 Russian-launched Shahed drones, which were produced in Iran, on the opening night of the year.

“Russian terrorists were pathetic, and they entered this year staying the same. Our defenders were awesome, and on January 1 they showed themselves very well,” he said.

Zelenskyy went on to thank “everyone who is fighting the enemy at the frontline every day and every night,” as well as energy and utility workers restoring infrastructure damaged by Russian strikes.

“And it is very important how all Ukrainians recharged their inner energy this New Year’s Eve,” said Zelenskyy.

“And how we thanked our warriors. How we thanked our loved ones. How millions of times all over Ukraine, all over the free world, our wish – the wish of victory – has sounded and still sounds.”

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