People in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv are preparing for the Christmas and the New Year's holidays, despite ongoing attacks by the Russian military. Some are buying Christmas trees sold on the streets.

A 12-meter tree was erected at a square in front of St Sophia Cathedral in the city center on Saturday.

On top of the tree is the Ukrainian coat of arms shaped like a traditional trident. It will be illuminated with blue and yellow, the colors of the country's flag. A generator will supply power to the tree.

But the ongoing Russian attacks have left the festivities visibly subdued. The tree is about a half the height of last year's. Mayor Vitali Klitschko banned Christmas markets from selling food and drinks.
A man in his 30s came to see the tree with his daughter.
He said the tree is beautiful and welcome. He said nobody should steal their holiday celebration.

A woman in her 50s says the subdued tree seems like the right thing, given the circumstances.
She says she thinks the national emblem on top of the tree symbolizes the country's unity and victory.