How servicemen of Ukraine’s Armed Forces and National Guard celebrate Christmas. PHOTO
VIKTORIIA ANDRIEIEVA – SUNDAY, 25 DECEMBER 2022
Despite the war, Ukrainian servicemen started celebrating Christmas on Christmas Eve, 24 December.
Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; National Guard of Ukraine
Details: The servicemen celebrated the occasion in the trenches yet at a big table with their brothers in arms.
It featured traditional dishes, candles and the spirit of Christmas.
The military observes a "dry law" in addition to the fasting table.
Kutia [a ceremonial grain dish with sweet gravy – ed.], Ukrainian dumplings, different kinds of fish, and soup have also been present on the tables of the National Guard soldiers.
Quote: "Today we have an extended, festive menu. We cooked kutia for our boys and girls as we would for our family. And it cannot be any other way. A military unit is one big family, and we need to support each other accordingly," says Artem, the National Guard's cook.
Details: The soldiers note that Christmas is a family holiday, which this year they have to celebrate with another family – with their sworn brothers.
Quote: "It is very nice and important. Christmas Eve begins the celebration of Christmas. Usually we celebrated it with families, in a family circle.
Today, I am also celebrating Christmas with my family, because my brothers in arms are with me. Let my wife forgive me. I will definitely spend Next Christmas with her, but this year – with my brothers," says National Guardsman Roman.
Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
