At a Russian Orthodox Christmas service near Moscow, Vladimir Putin invoked religious and patriotic symbolism to promote unity and praise Russian troops as the war in Ukraine enters its fourth year.
Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an early Wednesday Russian Orthodox Christmas service near Moscow. The event took place as Russia’s war in
Ukraine approaches the end of its fourth year. Putin used the occasion to speak about unity, charity, and support for the armed forces. The Kremlin continues to frame the conflict as a national mission, drawing on patriotic and religious symbolism.
Russian Orthodox Christmas services are traditionally held around midnight. They draw large congregations for long liturgies. Putin has often attended smaller ceremonies. These have included services inside a Kremlin cathedral. This time, the service was held at the St George Victory Bearer church near Moscow.
Video footage showed Putin wearing a dark suit without a tie. He stood among uniformed servicemen. Wives and children were also present. Clerics led the service.
‘Holy mission’ to defend the Fatherland
Speaking at the church after the service, Putin praised Russia’s troops. “Russia’s warriors have always, as if at the Lord’s behest, carried out this mission of defending the Fatherland and its people, saving the Motherland and its people,” Putin said. “At all times in Russia, this is how people have regarded their warriors, as those who, as if at the Lord’s behest, carry out this holy mission.”
Kremlin message on unity and charity
Earlier, in a Christmas greeting published on the Kremlin website, Putin praised the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations. He said they play a key role in strengthening social unity. He also said they safeguard Russia’s historical and cultural heritage.
Putin said religious organisations focus on mercy and charity. He highlighted their care for those in need. He also noted their support for participants and veterans of the war, which Moscow calls a special military operation.
“Such important and in demand work deserves the most sincere recognition,” Putin said.
Putin has attended Christmas services regularly since 2000. These have often taken place outside Moscow. Since the war began, however, he has more frequently marked the holiday near the capital. This has included services at his Novo Ogaryovo state residence.
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