Ukraine Celebrates Christmas on December 25, Breaking from Russian Tradition Amid Ongoing Conflict

International support for Ukraine continues with military aid from Germany, Finland, and the Netherlands, as Ukrainians show unity and resilience in their Christmas celebrations.

Ukraine celebrated Christmas on December 25 for the first time, breaking away from the Russian Orthodox tradition of celebrating on January 7. This move is seen as a symbolic break from Russian influence.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy thanked Germany, Finland, and the Netherlands for providing military aid to help Ukraine fight off the Russian invasion. The Netherlands and Finland sent further aid packages each totaling $110 million.
Ukrainian authorities reported that as of November 17, at least 3,574 military personnel and 763 civilians are in Russian captivity. Relatives of Ukrainian prisoners of war protested for their release on December 24.
Ukraine is awaiting a long-desired boost to its military arsenal in the coming days as it battles to counter Russian air supremacy over its skies. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte informed Zelenskiy that Ukraine will likely receive its first shipment of advanced F-16 fighter aircraft before the end of the year.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukrainians across the country celebrated Christmas, with President Zelenskiy stating, 'Today, all Ukrainians are together. We all celebrate Christmas together. On one date, as one big family, as one nation, as one, one country… Today, it will unite millions of voices -- more than ever before.'