New Delhi: Volodymyr Zelensky didn’t take his name, but left none in doubt that he wished death for Vladimir Putin in his Christmas message.
Referring to a Ukrainian myth known as ‘the heavens open’, Zelensky said in the course of his three-minute video message: “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. Today, we all share one dream. And we make one wish – for all of us – May he perish.”
The death wish came after Russia launched a major missile attack in several parts of Ukraine on Tuesday, ahead of Christmas Eve. The attacks, which killed three people, triggered massive power outages across Ukraine, news publication Independent reported.
On Christmas day, too, Russia launched 131 drones into Ukraine. Most of the drones were intercepted by Ukrainian defence, but around 20 hit 15 regions, ABC News reports.
“On the eve of Christmas, the Russians once again showed who they truly are. Massive shelling, hundreds of ‘shaheds’, ballistic missiles, Kinzhal strikes – everything was used. This is how the godless strike,” Zelensky said, questioning the country’s intention to seek peace efforts.
Zelensky, who disclosed a 20-point peace plan agreed by Ukraine and the US, urged citizens to stand tall against the attacks while expressing gratitude to them for protecting the interests of Ukraine even at the cost of their lives.
“For all our fallen heroes who defended Ukraine at the cost of their lives. For everyone whom Russia has driven into occupation and forced to flee. For those for whom it is hard, but who have not lost Ukraine within themselves, and therefore Ukraine will never lose them. Today we stand shoulder to shoulder. We will not lose our way in the darkness,” he noted.
