The Head of State briefed them on diplomatic efforts, shared the latest details of talks with the American side, and thanked them for their support for Ukraine.

First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska has summarized the implementation results of barrier‑free projects carried out by ministries in cooperation with civil society and international partners under her “Barrier‑Free” initiative and the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier‑Free Environment in Ukraine.

Today, we also spoke for nearly an hour with envoys of the U.S. President – Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. It was a truly good conversation: we went into many details.

The parties discussed certain substantive details of the ongoing work. There are good ideas that can work toward a shared outcome and lasting peace.

The Head of State congratulated His All-Holiness on Christmas and thanked him for his sincere greetings to the Ukrainian people, as well as for his support for the defense of life and for diplomatic efforts.

The awards were presented to scientists who have made significant contributions in the development of medicine, the renovation of armaments and military equipment, the creation of materials for advanced weaponry, the protection of critical infrastructure, the improvement of crime prevention, and the development of unmanned systems, missiles, and ammunition, as well as the enhancement of military planning – a total of 73 laureates with 10 scientific projects.

We mark Christmas in a difficult time. Sadly, not all of us are at home this evening. Sadly, not everyone still has a home. And sadly, not everyone is with us tonight. But despite all the suffering that Russia has brought, it is not capable of occupying or bombing what matters most. That is our Ukrainian heart, our faith in one another, and our unity.