Ukrainian Orthodox Christians are marking a historic change by celebrating Christmas on December 25, breaking away from their traditional date of January 7, as per the Julian calendar followed in alignment with Russia. This departure signifies a shift toward the Western, or Gregorian, calendar, which Ukraine uses in its daily life, and marks another step away from Russian practices.
In a significant move, President Volodymyr Zelensky amended legislation in July, allowing Ukrainians to break free from the Russian heritage of celebrating Christmas in January. In a Christmas message shared on X, Zelensky expressed a message of hope, stating, “Darkness will eventually lose. Evil will be defeated. Today, this is our common goal, our common wish, and what we pray for. For our freedom. For our victory. For our Ukraine. Christ is Born! Glorify Him!”
Amidst the ongoing conflict with Russian forces, Ukraine has actively pursued measures to sever ties with its neighboring country. Due to historical connections with the Soviet Union, Ukraine has undertaken efforts to rename streets and remove monuments that bear ties to Russia.
Judith Iyoh writes fashion, lifestyle and real estate investment.
