Putin Attends Christmas Mass With Troops, Hails Soldiers' 'Sacred Duty'

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Orthodox Christmas service on Sunday. The ceremony was held at a military base outside Moscow. In his remarks, Putin emphasized the role of soldiers. He framed military service as a "sacred duty" for those defending Russia. The event highlighted themes of national unity and traditional values. Orthodox Christianity follows a different calendar than Western churches. Its Christmas is celebrated on January 7. The Russian Orthodox Church is closely tied to the state. The president's appearance with troops on a major religious holiday is seen as a symbolic gesture. It reinforces a message of patriotism and collective purpose.