Ukraine moves its Christmas date marking shift away from Russia | BBC News

For the first time since 1917, Ukraine is celebrating Christmas on 25 December.

The move is more than just a change of date from 7 January – the date for Christmas in the Julian calendar, which Russia uses.

It’s the continuation of a significant cultural shift in the country – the latest attempt to eradicate Moscow’s influence in Ukraine.

The adoption of the Western, Gregorian calendar is also a sign of Kyiv’s continuing bid to align itself with Europe.

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