The Christmas season has arrived, and while much of the world pauses to celebrate, the hope for peace remains painfully present for Ukrainians. This year is different. Ukraine’s resilience and quiet brilliance have come sharply into focus. The country is sending a clear and unmistakable message: recognize and respect us as a free nation among free peoples. No people can be denied the right to live with full sovereignty.
Ukraine’s greatest gift to the world this Christmas is its defense of freedom – not only for itself, but for every European nation. Freedom is not a privilege; it is a deserved virtue. Ukraine has the right to self-government, and the right – as well as the means – to defend itself against any aggressor. Those who question Ukraine’s demand for freedom must ask themselves why any people should be denied the right to self-determination.
A free and united nation must be the outcome. The preservation of language, culture, history, and democratic values is fundamental to the identity of any civilized society. This is not a matter for discussion. It is a matter of principle – and Ukraine’s freedom stands firmly upon it. These are human rights.
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Today, the world is witnessing the immense and irreversible price Ukraine is paying – in lives, in cities, in futures interrupted. This suffering is impossible to ignore. And yet, from this pain has emerged a resurgent Ukraine. Significant victories have been achieved on land, at sea, and in the skies, drawing the attention of the entire world. The ingenuity, adaptability, and resolve of Ukraine’s Armed Forces now command global respect.
Even amid profound loss, Ukraine stands each day as a shield for democracy far beyond its own borders. Ukrainians continue to demonstrate extraordinary resolve, inner strength, and dignity while enduring the relentless trials of daily life.
At the same time, the world is witnessing military innovation that delivers powerful and unexpected blows. Ukraine is reshaping how future wars will be fought. Inevitably, the question arises: what will the Ukrainian soldier do next? In this reality, Ukrainians have become the teachers, and the rest of the world the students – learning, sometimes belatedly, how freedom is defended and how independence must be protected when it is threatened.
For this reason, NATO countries supporting Ukraine must fully recognize the importance of ensuring that Ukrainians remain free. A free Ukraine safeguards Europe’s continuity. It strengthens the ability of individual European nations to preserve their sovereignty, cultures, and futures. In doing so, it lays the groundwork for long-term stability and sustainable growth.
At the same time, we must not forget the Ukrainian citizen. Ordinary people have become symbols of courage, compassion, and endurance. They live with constant uncertainty, knowing their homes and lives remain under threat. As the war continues, civilians become unwilling hostages to aggression, bearing the emotional and physical weight of conflict each day.
This war is also a warning to any nation tempted by aggression. It reminds global leaders that such ambitions come at a cost: suffering at home, shattered economies, and the erosion of political legitimacy and global standing. History shows that when wars end, it is often the people who suffered from aggression bear the deepest scars – families lost, societies destabilized, and reputations permanently damaged.
I have met many Ukrainians and experienced their humility, kindness, and strength of spirit. Conversations with them are rich in sincerity, friendship, and purposeful compassion. They are people one comes to respect deeply – and once you know them, they remain friends for life.
As citizens of the free world, we must continue to support and encourage these remarkable people: to keep faith, remain strong in spirit, and believe in lasting freedom and peace. This is what good people do when others are in need. May God bless the Ukrainians and their enduring pursuit of freedom. As citizens of the world, we are called to stand beside Ukraine on its path toward freedom, security, and peace.
To the Ukrainian Soldier
The Ukrainian soldier embodies diligence, honor, and purpose – the very qualities every free society values. Through your courage, you are defending not only your homes, but the future of Europe itself. As the world watches, it is struck by the scale of your ingenuity and daring. Ukrainian warriors have carried the fight deep into the conscience of the aggressor, driven by an unshakable belief in justice and freedom.
In response, NATO nations must rise to the responsibility of this moment. Words and declarations are no longer enough. What is required are decisive actions and meaningful support. Ending this war demands the tools to do so. It is a moral duty to secure a Ukrainian victory – and a just, lasting peace.
Overcoming hesitation and doubt, every allied government must answer this call. Each day, Ukrainian soldiers demonstrate courage, compassion, and determination on the front lines. With every passing week, progress is achieved through sacrifice and resilience. May this perseverance lead Ukraine to its rightful future: victory, peace, and freedom.
David Soley, Ukraine Freedom Global Advocate
Disclaimer: Articles reflect their author’s point of view and do not claim to be objective or to explore every aspect of the issues they discuss. The Ukrainska Pravda editorial board does not bear any responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided, or its interpretation, and acts solely as a publisher. The point of view of the Ukrainska Pravda editorial board may not coincide with the point of view of the article’s author.
