President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on Tuesday that Ukraine must continue its fight in 2025—both militarily and diplomatically—to strengthen its position ahead of any negotiations to end Russia's prolonged invasion.

Reflecting on a challenging year, Zelensky acknowledged Ukraine's struggles against a better-resourced Russian army, which has cost the nation seven times more territory than it lost in 2023, according to AFP analysis. The uncertainty surrounding US support as Donald Trump prepares to assume the presidency adds to Ukraine's concerns.

"Every day in the coming year, we must fight for a strong Ukraine—one that is respected and heard, whether on the battlefield or at the negotiating table," Zelensky said in his address. "May 2025 be our year—the year of Ukraine. Peace will not be handed to us as a gift, but we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war."

As the year closes, US President Joe Biden's administration announced $6 billion in military and budgetary aid for Ukraine, a final push to bolster Kyiv's defenses before Trump’s expected inauguration. Trump has vowed to resolve the conflict within "24 hours," prompting fears in Ukraine of potential territorial concessions to Russia in exchange for peace.

Zelensky expressed cautious optimism, saying, "I have no doubt the new American president is capable of achieving peace and ending Putin's aggression."

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his New Year's Eve address, avoided direct references to the war but commended Russian soldiers for their "courage and bravery."