On the eve of Orthodox Christmas, President Vladimir Putin delivered a speech pledging support to soldiers defending Russia as his army launched another round of drone and missile attacks on Ukraine. The Russian leader did not call for a ceasefire this year, emphasizing the dedication of “Russian warriors” who are currently engaged in the invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
While Putin’s promise of increased backing for military families received applause from some, criticism persists over Russia’s treatment of its soldiers in the ongoing conflict. Following a mobilization drive in September 2022, concerns were raised about the lack of training and equipment provided to the troops. The wives of Russian soldiers mobilized for the war demanded the return of their husbands from the front lines, particularly as many spent Christmas in trenches with little progress in the war.
Amidst the stalemate, air raids have intensified, with Ukraine’s air force reporting the downing of 21 out of 28 Russian drones launched overnight. The south and east regions of Ukraine were the primary targets, and three cruise missiles were also fired, though specific details were not provided. The Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson, Yuriy Ihnat, stated that the enemy has shifted its focus to frontline territories, with Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions being attacked by drones. Mobile teams were successful in destroying most of the drones, thereby saving valuable air defense missiles. However, a drone attack in the city of Dnipro resulted in 12 injuries, and the previous day, a Russian missile attack in Pokrovsk killed 11 people and injured 10.
The city of Belgorod, located on the Russia-Ukraine border, canceled its Orthodox Christmas celebrations due to the recent deadly cross-border attack that claimed 25 lives. The city has since experienced sporadic rocket attacks. In a separate greeting on the Kremlin’s website, Putin called on Russians to follow the “unshakable” values of “goodness, mercy, and justice.” He also urged the Russian Orthodox Church to strengthen the institution of families and patriotism. Putin’s emphasis on “traditional values” aligns with his upcoming presidential election campaign in March, as he seeks to consolidate support.
It’s worth noting that Ukraine, which is also Orthodox, celebrated Christmas on December 25 for the first time this year instead of aligning with Russia on January 7. This change reflects Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to distance itself from Russian influence and assert its national identity. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law in July enacting this change, symbolizing Ukraine’s dissatisfaction with Russia’s invasion and occupation.
In conclusion, President Putin’s vow to support Russian soldiers defending Ukraine comes as the conflict continues to escalate. The intensified air raids and missile attacks during Orthodox Christmas highlight the ongoing tensions between the two countries. As Ukraine asserts its independence and distances itself from Russian influence, the conflict shows no signs of resolution.
