On Christmas Eve, Russia's brutal war in Ukraine will enter its tenth month.
As thousands die on both sides, Russian President Vladimir Putin refuses to end a cruel and meaningless war.
But it's December and the fury of battle has not dimmed the spirit of Christmas across Ukraine.
IMAGE: People walk past a Christmas tree at Sofiyska square in Kyiv. Photograph: Vladyslav Musiienko/Reuters
IMAGE: A Bakhmut emergency services worker puts decorations on a Christmas tree at their headquarters.
Russia continues its campaign to seize Bakhmut in what many analysts regard as an offensive with more symbolic value than operational importance for Russia. Photograph: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Russia continues its campaign to seize Bakhmut in what many analysts regard as an offensive with more symbolic value than operational importance for Russia. Photograph: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
IMAGE: Bakhmut emergency services workers put up Christmas lights at their headquarters.
In a recent intelligence report, the British defence ministry said Russia would try to encircle Bakhmut, a city located in the Donetsk region. Photograph: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
In a recent intelligence report, the British defence ministry said Russia would try to encircle Bakhmut, a city located in the Donetsk region. Photograph: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
IMAGE: Christmas lights are up at the Bakhmut emergency services headquarters. Photograph: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com
Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff.com
