Zelensky wishes death to Putin in his Christmas message
Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris in 2019. Photo: Ian Langsdon/Pool Photo via AP
In the Christmas address to Ukrainians, published on the President's website on December 24, 2025, Volodymyr Zelensky actually wished death upon Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"Since ancient times, Ukrainians have believed that, on Christmas night, the heavens open. And if you tell them your dream, it will surely come true," he said.
Speaking about the people's Christmas wishes, Zelensky stated: "Today, we all share one dream. And we make one wish – for all of us. 'May he perish,' each of us may think to ourselves."
At the same time, according to him, when addressing God, Ukrainians ask "for something greater" – peace for Ukraine and an end to the war. In the same address, he repeatedly spoke about Christian values, the Nativity of Christ, prayer, and faith.
Concluding the address, Zelensky wished Ukrainians "peace", "goodness and truth may prevail", ending the greeting with the traditional Christian salutation: "Christ is born! Glorify Him!"
As reported by the UOJ, Zelensky stated that "Ukrainians are together tonight – marking Christmas on the same date, as one big family", despite the fact that millions of believers of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church continue to celebrate Christmas on January 7.
Read also
UOC hierarch leads funeral service for Kyiv Eparchy priest killed at front
Metropolitan Augustine conducted the funeral service for Archpriest Viacheslav Lytvynenko, a longtime military chaplain.
Orthodox youth from across Ukraine meet in Kyiv
The UOC meetup brought participants from different eparchies to the capital for live fellowship and dialogue on spiritual topics.
Khmelnytskyi Eparchy choir performs hymn by Patriarch Ilia
The choir of the Khmelnytskyi Eparchy performed a sacred work by Patriarch Ilia on the day commemorating his repose.
Metropolitan Shio: Patriarch Ilia II’s love became a source of faith and hope
In Georgia, Metropolitan Shio said in his sermon on the 40th day after Patriarch Ilia II’s repose that his love and ministry became a source of faith, hope, and spiritual renewal for the people.
Orthodox Christians in U.S.: “War on Faith” bill ignores persecution of UOC
The St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco Society has accused Congressmen Joe Wilson and Don Bacon of “double standards” in drafting a religious freedom bill concerning Ukraine.
UOC Social Department in Kyiv delivers aid to 100 displaced families
In Kyiv, displaced families received humanitarian aid, food and household packages, as well as Paschal greetings from the UOC Social Department.