**Ukraine’s President Urges Europe to Make Next Year a Year of Peace**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Europe to make next year a peaceful one. He made the appeal during an extraordinary session of the European Parliament dedicated to the 1,000th day of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
**1000 Days of War**
Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The invasion led to a prolonged and devastating conflict that has affected millions of people. President Zelensky said that Ukraine deserves peace and thanked Europe for its support.
**Need for Tougher Sanctions**
The Ukrainian president urged European leaders to impose tougher sanctions on Russia. He specifically mentioned the need to target Russia’s “shadow fleet” – ships that transport oil products in circumvention of existing restrictions.
**Uncertain Future**
Ukraine is bracing itself for a difficult winter. Just days ago, Russia launched one of its largest aerial attacks against Ukraine’s energy grid, leaving civilians dead and injured across multiple regions. The future of U.S. military aid to Ukraine is also uncertain with President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in January.
**Escalating Situation**
Thousands of Russian and North Korean forces have amassed near the Ukrainian border, preparing to launch a counteroffensive against Ukrainian troops. This has prompted U.S. President Joe Biden to grant Ukraine permission to use American long-range weapons on Russian territory.
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