Ukraine's 1,407 Days of War: Zelenskyy Vows "Never" to Surrender

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has marked the new year with a defiant message to his nation and the world. In his third wartime New Year's Eve speech, Zelenskyy stated that "peace is within reach." He emphasized, however, that Ukraine will never agree to surrender its freedom, independence, or sovereignty. The president framed the ongoing conflict as a battle for national survival. He declared that Ukraine's path is one of resilience and continued resistance against the Russian invasion. Zelenskyy's address highlighted the war's duration. As of December 31, Ukraine has endured 1,407 days under fire since the conflict in the Donbas region began in 2014. The speech reinforced his government's consistent position. It rejects any peace agreement that would require Ukraine to give up its territory or its right to self-determination.