CHRISTMAS IN UKRAINE: 2010-2022

by Shaurya Thapa

This is how Ukraine's Kyiv was lit up last Christmas. The war with Russia has changed it all. 

Photo: Getty Images

Here's a look at the Christmassy decade before the war...

Photo: Reuters

In traditional outfits, kids stroll during Orthodox Christmas Eve celebrations in Lviv (2010). 

Photo: AFP

A large Christmas tree on display in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine,
in 2011.

Photo: Getty Images

Ukraine's Orthodox Church observes Christmas in January instead of December. (2012)

Photo: Getty Images

The Christmas tree in Kyiv's Independence Square bears a portrait of Putin as Hitler. (2013)

Photo: Getty Images

Children sing a carol during celebration of the Orthodox Christmas on January 7, 2015.

Photo: Getty Images

Christmas Fair is held at Kyiv's St Sophia Square every January. Here is the one from 2016. 

Photo: Getty images

The main Christmas tree of Ukraine in front of St Sophia Cathedral on December 28, 2020.

Photo: Getty Images

Photo: Getty Images

In 2022, the Christmas tree is decorated with doves instead; hoping for an end to the war.