KYIV, Ukraine -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the successful interception of two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve, declaring that "this Christmas sets the right mood for the entire year ahead."

In his Christmas message, Zelenskyy referred to Ukraine's claim of shooting down an additional three Russian fighter planes on Friday, highlighting the importance of a strong air defense to protect the country's skies and land from Russian aggression.

The Ukrainian president's positive assessment comes as concerns grow over battlefield setbacks and the future of Western aid for Ukraine's war effort. Despite hopes for a summer counteroffensive, the front line has seen minimal movement, and political disputes among allied countries are casting doubt on billions of dollars in aid.

Meanwhile, Russia announced a battlefield advance with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stating that Moscow's forces have gained control over Marinka, a strategic town located approximately 20 kilometers west of Donetsk, the largest city in Russian-held territory. Ukrainian officials did not comment on the reported seizure of the town.

According to Ukrainian sources, two Russian planes were shot down overnight, with the country's air defense forces successfully intercepting a total of 28 Russian drones. The Ukrainian air force reported that a total of 31 drones were launched, but no details were provided regarding the three that were not intercepted.

The Ukrainian presidential office issued a summary stating that one civilian was killed and at least four others were wounded in Russian attacks within the past 24 hours. The town of Chornobaivka in the Kherson region, which is under Ukrainian control and frequently targeted, witnessed the reported death.

Earlier this year, Zelenskyy signed legislation to officially recognize December 25 as the public holiday for Christmas, marking a significant change from the traditional January 7 date. With Ukraine predominantly Orthodox Christian, but divided between two churches, this move was seen by many as a step towards strengthening cultural separation from Russia.

The Orthodox Church of Ukraine gained full recognition in 2019, breaking away from the affiliation with the Russian Orthodox Church. In 2022, amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which was previously a branch of the Russian church, also declared autonomy. While its parishes continue to follow the liturgical calendar of the Russian church, they will observe Christmas on January 7.

The change in celebrating Christmas on December 25 has been embraced by many Ukrainians as a way to assert their cultural independence and distance themselves from Russia. Yevhen Konyk, a 44-year-old serviceman, described it as "historical justice" and a means to overcome the remnants of imperialism.

While Ukrainians remain hopeful for victory in the coming year, the dire situation on the frontline is acknowledged. Konyk noted that expectations for significant progress on the front were not met, with the enemy also making preparations.

Oksana Poviakel, the director of the Pyrohiv Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine, emphasized the significance of celebrating Christmas on December 25 as "another important factor of self-identification." She stressed the importance of separating from a neighboring country that is actively seeking to undermine and destroy Ukraine.

As the new year approaches, Ukraine looks to build on the success of intercepting Russian fighter jets and drones, while also seeking to address challenges on the battlefield and ensure continued support from Western allies.