Moscow: Orthodox Christians around the world are celebrating Christmas today, on this occasion ceremonies were held in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Poland and many countries of Eastern Europe.
On Christmas Eve, candles are lit along with liturgy in Orthodox churches around the world.
President Putin also participated in the prayer ceremony in the cathedral of the Russian capital, Moscow.
At the event, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, expressed his regret over the deaths in Ukraine, saying that the military events have unfortunately overshadowed the joy of Christmas celebrations.
It should be noted that the majority of the citizens of Ukraine are affiliated with the Orthodox Church.
On the occasion of Christmas, the Russian President announced a 36-hour ceasefire in Ukraine from January 6 at 12 noon to January 7 at 12 midnight.
Yesterday, the two countries also accused each other of attacking each other, but today, Russia has assured to follow the ceasefire it announced.
The Russian Ministry of Defense says that the Russian army will implement the declared ceasefire until 12:00 tonight.
