President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about the prospects for the development of Ukrainian defense and the necessity to preserve its leadership in foreign policy.

"I wish health to all dear Ukrainians!

I held another meeting of the Command Post — already the 45th this year.

The key issue is Donetsk, Luhansk — our Donbas, where the fiercest battles are taking place. Bakhmut, Siversk, Kreminna... Overall, we are holding our positions. There are also front sections where we are gradually advancing. And I thank all of our fighters who ensure this. You — true heroes!

We discussed the situation in the south, on our border, arms supply, and further strengthening of defense.

This year we not only preserved our air defense — we made it stronger than ever before. But next year Ukrainian defense will become even stronger and more effective.

Ukrainian defense can become the strongest in Europe, and this will be a guarantee of security not just for our country but also for the entire continent.

We also discussed after the Command Post — at a separate meeting — the situation in energy, to which we are preparing.

We have a clear strategy for ensuring generation and electricity supply. To implement it, time is needed. A lot of effort is required. But this will happen. It must happen. This is one of the most important tasks for next year, and I do not doubt that we will fulfill it.

Today I spoke with the Prime Minister of Greece. We summed up the year, thanked Greece for its support to our country. Agreed on how we can make cooperation even more meaningful in the coming year.

I held a meeting with our internationalists. Many issues were discussed, but the main one — those measures that we are preparing to strengthen Ukraine already in January and February.

Ukraine will preserve its achieved leadership in foreign policy and will be even more active, this is 100 percent certain.

And one more thing.

Today for the first time a ceremony took place to honor our volunteers with "Golden Hearts."

This is fair and honest — to recognize those who have helped our defense, people, and our entire country throughout the year.

I thank everyone who fights for our country. Who helps Ukrainians. Who works for Ukraine and its future.

Glory to all our people!

Glory to Ukraine!»