A huge Christmas tree has been illuminated in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, amid Russia's continuing invasion of the country.

The 12-meter tall tree installed in a square in front of the St. Sophia Cathedral was lit up in a ceremony on Friday.

People gathered in the square despite the snowy weather and sub-zero temperatures.

They cheered when the white tree was bathed in blue light, following a countdown.

Some people were seen taking photos of themselves with smiles in front of the tree.

A woman at the event whose brother is serving in the military said her family used to celebrate Christmas together, but these days they just come to see the tree. She said she hopes Ukraine will win the war and all the soldiers will return home safe and sound.

One man said it's unbearable to know somebody is dying somewhere while people are celebrating Christmas. He said he wants to see peace prevail, not just in Ukraine but all over the world.

Ukraine used to observe Orthodox Christmas on January 7 according to the Julian calendar, like Russia. But last year Ukraine officially changed the date to December 25 to align with the Gregorian calendar amid mounting anger against Russia's aggression.