As everyone is busy chasing resolutions for the new year, Christians in Russia are getting into the Christmas spirit — they are waiting to break their 40-day fast with a giant feast joined by friends and family. However, they are not alone.

Russian President Vladimir Putin extended Christmas greetings to Orthodox Christians, emphasizing the importance of family traditions and the role of the Russian Orthodox Church in uniting people. On January 7,

In addition to the ban on images of St. Nicholas, the Russian occupiers in the temporarily occupied territories have introduced a complete taboo on the Ukrainian Christmas tradition of Vertep, the Nativity Scenes and other mystery plays symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

Russia's invasion, which began in February 2022, has also been a source of religious controversy within the Eastern Orthodox Church and has driven a split among believers in both Russia and Ukraine.Vi