Military photographer touched with "festive" photos of defenders who cannot come home for Christmas

Mykyta Shandyba, the head of the press service of the 10th Edelweiss Mountain Assault Brigade, showed a heartwarming photo project with the military for Christmas. With his photos, the photographer wanted to remind Ukrainians once again that thousands of defenders will not be able to celebrate the winter holidays with their loved ones. Instead, they will spend these days in the cold trenches and on the battlefield against the occupiers.

Mykyta Shandyba shared the footage on his personal Instagram page. The publication touched the Internet users.

"Christmas 2023. This year it is different for everyone again. Unfortunately, our soldiers cannot celebrate it with their families, wives and children, but we know that thanks to their resilience and perseverance, the enemy will be destroyed and everyone will return to their homes. Remember those who are now in the fields and trenches, respect their courage and bravery, and help bring our victory closer," the photographer addressed his followers.

He also noted that this year was, without exaggeration, one of the most difficult for independent Ukraine. There have been many losses, but we must not forget that today most of us will be able to gather for a festive dinner thanks to the defenders who remain on the front line.

"There is no mud, blood or shelling in the photos. There is a soul in these photos that will be felt by everyone who looks at them. Family warmth and hugs from relatives is a dream for everyone who is defending their loved ones," added Shandyba.

The footage shows a Ukrainian soldier in the middle of a field "celebrating" Christmas. On his table is a straw didukh, symbolizing prosperity and harmony, as well as traditional Ukrainian Christmas dishes: kutia, stuffed cabbage, dumplings, pampushkas, fish, uzvar, and more. The warrior lights a candle and begins the "festive meal". A weapon stands next to his table as a symbol of the fact that the war is ongoing and the soldiers at the front have no days off or breaks for the holidays.

Internet users were touched by the photos. In the comments they write: "Tears and goosebumps," "It hurts that so many people cannot be with their families at Christmas," "Thank you to all the soldiers who defend our land! I bow to your courage and fortitude! God bless you!", "May this Christmas become a blanket and a talisman for you", "Thank you for defending our land".

As OBOZ.UA previously wrote, in Odesa, children began singing Christmas songs in the shelter of a school. The young Ukrainians cheered up both themselves and adults, and also touched the netizens who watched the video.

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