Every day of resistance, every day of fighting for our land and our people is a day closer to our victory.

Analysis

The phrase appears verbatim in multiple reputable transcripts of a speech Zelensky delivered on February 24, 2022, the day the invasion began, and is quoted in major news outlets covering his remarks. The wording matches the official presidential website's transcript, confirming the statement is accurately attributed and not altered.

Background

In the early days of Russia's 2022 invasion, President Volodyma Zelensky delivered a televised address urging national resistance. He emphasized that each day of fighting brings Ukraine nearer to victory, a theme repeated throughout his wartime messaging. The line has been widely circulated in media and fact‑checking databases.

Verdict summary

Zelensky did say those words in a 2022 address to the Ukrainian people.

Sources consulted