Ukraine, 25 December - Ukrainian Orthodox Christians are set to celebrate Christmas on 25 December for the first time this year, marking a departure from the traditional celebration on 7 January following the Julian calendar. This change is part of Ukraine's efforts to distance itself from Russian influence and align with Western practices.

In a significant move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law in July to allow Ukrainians to abandon the Russian heritage of celebrating Christmas in January. The aim was to create a sense of unity among all Ukrainians, irrespective of religious beliefs.

In a heartfelt Christmas message issued on Sunday evening, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of celebrating Christmas together. He stated, "We all celebrate Christmas together. On the same date, as one big family, as one nation, as one united country."

The capital city of Kyiv witnessed a heartwarming display of unity as couples with different religious backgrounds celebrated Christmas together. One such couple, Lesia Shestakova, a Catholic, and Oleksandr Shestakov, who is Orthodox, attended the Sunday morning service at the city's Catholic cathedral. Previously, they would celebrate Christmas twice, with each of their respective parents. Lesia stated, "There is finally a day in Ukraine which my husband and I can spend together in the cathedral and thank God that we are together, alive, and in good health."

Notably, Ukraine's Orthodox Church, an independent church that was established in 2019, has also shifted its Christmas date to 25 December. This move served as a symbol of the church's breakaway from the Russian Orthodox Church, which occurred after Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support for separatist movements in eastern Ukraine.

The decision to change the Christmas date has been met with mixed reactions within the country. While some see it as a way to reclaim Ukrainian identity and align with Western practices, others view it as a break from tradition and a move away from historic ties with Russia.

As Ukraine embraces the new Christmas date, it simultaneously seeks to assert its independence in various aspects, including religious observances. This decision represents a broader shift towards forging its own path and asserting its unique national identity.

In a world where religious traditions and calendars vary across countries and cultures, Ukraine's decision to celebrate Christmas on 25 December serves as an example of how societies can evolve and adapt to better reflect their aspirations and values.