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A devastating Russian shelling incident in Ukraine’s Kherson region has resulted in the loss of four lives, including an elderly couple, casting a shadow over the country’s inaugural observance of Christmas on 25th December. Amid the casualties, nine individuals sustained injuries, and the assault triggered fires in residences and a medical facility while rupturing a local gas pipeline.
Photo from Google
Impact of the Shelling
The shelling struck an apartment building, claiming the lives of an 87-year-old man and his 81-year-old wife, and injuring others, including a 15-year-old. This merciless attack has significantly affected the capital city of Kherson, coinciding tragically with Ukraine’s first official observation of Christmas on 25th December.
Andrii Yermak, head of the Ukrainian president’s office, condemned the attack, emphasizing that in the face of such tragedies, there are no holidays for the enemy. The shelling’s repercussions extended beyond casualties, causing fires in residential areas and a private medical facility, as well as damaging a local gas pipeline.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing turmoil in the region, underscoring the profound impact of conflict and violence on civilians. The timing of the attack during the country’s shifted Christmas observance adds another layer of sorrow to an already grieving community.
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Shift in Christmas Observance and Resilience
The decision to officially observe Christmas on 25th December in Ukraine stems from the country’s conflict with Russia, with President Volodymyr Zelensky signing legislation last July to formalize the change. This adjustment follows Orthodox Ukrainians’ earlier observance of Christmas on this date in response to Russia’s invasion in 2022.
In a Christmas message, President Zelensky highlighted the unity and determination of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity, acknowledging the ongoing battle against Russia’s invasion. The shift in Christmas observance symbolizes the resilience of Ukrainians and their commitment to solidarity amidst ongoing conflict and tragedy.
READ ALSO: U.S. Considers Seizing Russian Assets Amid Rising Tensions
