Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky used his Christmas address to deliver one of his most direct condemnations of Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing a wish for his death. The statement came as Ukraine faced another wave of Russian missile and drone attacks that killed at least three people and left large parts of the country without power. Zelensky said that despite Russia’s ongoing aggression, it had failed to destroy Ukrainians’ unity, faith, and spirit. Without naming Putin directly, he declared that Ukrainians shared a single hope — the death of the man responsible for their suffering. His remarks followed a series of Russian strikes using ballistic and Kinzhal missiles, which Kyiv described as one of the most intense bombardments in recent weeks. The comments underscored the deepening hostility between Kyiv and Moscow as the war nears its third year. Analysts suggest Zelensky’s rhetoric reflects growing frustration with the relentless attacks and the slow pace of Western support. Further escalation in rhetoric and military action is expected as both sides brace for a harsh winter.