By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In his New Year’s address, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy declared 2025 the year to end Russia’s invasion, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to securing peace through its own efforts and continued US support. This follows a year of significant Russian territorial gains—nearly 4,000 square kilometers in 2024 alone—and the termination of a key gas transit deal with Russia. A Russian drone strike on Kyiv on January 1st further underscored the ongoing conflict. The upcoming US presidential administration’s stance on aid to Ukraine remains a critical factor in the coming year.
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Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy’s recent pronouncements underscore a steadfast determination to repel Russia’s aggression. He’s pledged that Ukraine will dedicate all its efforts in 2025 to halting Russia’s war. This vow reflects a deep-seated resolve to end the conflict, a resolve seemingly fueled by the immense human cost and the ongoing devastation inflicted upon the country.
The ongoing conflict necessitates a clear understanding of its scale and brutality. Hundreds of thousands of lives have already been lost, and Ukrainian cities endure relentless bombardment. This horrific reality makes holding presidential elections currently impossible, a fact that underscores the profound disruption caused by Russia’s invasion. The situation is dire, and the immediate future holds significant challenges.
However, the unwavering support for Ukraine and its defense against Russia is a significant factor. There’s a widespread understanding that supporting Ukraine is not merely a moral imperative but also strategically advantageous for the West. The geopolitical implications extend beyond the immediate conflict; the cost of not supporting Ukraine, including the economic impacts like food inflation, far outweigh the costs of continued assistance. The strategic benefits of a strong, Western-aligned Ukraine post-conflict are also substantial.
Conversely, Russia’s capabilities and motivations are subject to much debate and speculation. Some assessments suggest that Russia’s military might is overstated, and that its resources may be insufficient to sustain the war at its current intensity for much longer. Others, like Lithuanian intelligence, predict that Russia could continue fighting at the current level for another two years. This divergence in opinion highlights the difficulty in accurately gauging the true extent of Russia’s remaining capacity for sustained aggression.
Amidst this uncertainty, the perspective of the Ukrainian people themselves should not be overlooked. Public opinion within Ukraine is understandably complex and evolving. While a strong sentiment persists in favor of resisting Russia, there is also a growing desire to end the war, even if it means making difficult territorial compromises. This internal debate is a crucial element of understanding the overall situation.
The question of holding elections in wartime is also a point of contention. While holding elections during an active conflict presents significant logistical and practical difficulties, historical precedent exists for elections being held even under challenging circumstances. The argument that elections are impossible due to the war is countered by historical examples and the inherent right of a nation to exercise its democratic processes, regardless of conflict.
The comments regarding the potential for a democratic revolution in Russia are intriguing, though the prospects remain unclear. The idea of Russia undergoing a transformation similar to post-WWII Germany presents a potential pathway to a more peaceful future, but the feasibility of such a drastic shift remains highly speculative and hinges on numerous unpredictable factors.
Ultimately, Zelenskyy’s vow to end Russia’s war by 2025 represents a powerful statement of intent. However, the path to achieving this ambitious goal is fraught with obstacles and uncertainties. The conflict’s duration, its ultimate outcome, and the shape of a post-war Ukraine remain subjects of ongoing debate and speculation. The resolve and determination of the Ukrainian people, however, remain a constant, fueling hopes for a peaceful and prosperous future.