Christmas greeting from Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Denys Shmyhal

Dear Ukrainian service members,

Dear Ukrainians, 

On this day, we traditionally come together with our families and loved ones to welcome the appearance of the first star. This moment marks the birth of Christ and the beginning of Christmas, a holiday that for centuries has symbolized faith, family warmth, and unity.

Today, hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian defenders are spending Christmas on the front line, protecting the safety and peace of their loved ones. Even on the front line and under field conditions, our service members seek to prepare traditional meals and sing Christmas carols to maintain the atmosphere of a family holiday among their brothers- and sisters-in-arms. It was through traditions that Ukrainians safeguarded their identity, despite decades of attempts by their enemies to destroy it. 

I express my gratitude to every one of you for your service and resilience.

I extend my thanks to the families of our defenders for their patience and steadfast faith.

May Christmas reinforce our confidence that light and freedom always prevail over darkness. 

Christ is born! Let us glorify Him!