New Year’s Celebrations Curtailed Across Russia Amidst Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine

Authorities in multiple regions of Russia have once again canceled or reduced New Year celebrations, citing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to a report by the Vedomosti business daily on Monday.

Most public festivities, apart from those aimed at children, have been called off in the republics of Khakassia, Tyva, Bashkortostan, Buryatia, and Chuvashia, as well as in the Vologda, Saratov, and Leningrad regions, along with Krasnodar, Stavropol, and annexed Crimea.

Tyva’s regional leader, Vladislav Khovalyg, stated, “While our sons, brothers, and fathers are on the front lines, our main duty is to stand by them in spirit and actions, rather than engage in raucous celebrations.” He contended that hosting large-scale New Year events, such as corporate gatherings and fireworks, would be inappropriate during a time when Russian forces are engaged in what the Kremlin refers to as a “special military operation” in Ukraine.

Saratov’s Governor Roman Busargin urged officials to focus on collecting humanitarian aid for soldiers or visiting them and their families rather than organizing festivities.

In the Siberian republic of Buryatia, local authorities called for “solidarity with our compatriots defending the nation’s interests on the front lines” and suggested canceling New Year corporate parties.

Radiy Khabirov, the head of Bashkortostan, emphasized that “no one would find it appropriate” to celebrate at this time.

State-run TASS reported that at least 64 of Russia’s 89 federal regions—which include annexed and occupied territories—will refrain from hosting New Year’s fireworks displays in major cities this year.

These decisions may not sit well with all residents, political analyst Konstantin Kalachyov commented to Vedomosti. “New Year’s is a revered holiday, a moment of hope for miracles,” he remarked. “Even during the darkest days of World War II, it remained a bright symbol of unity, faith in victory, and a return to peace for the Soviet people.”

In regions far from active combat and largely untouched by drone strikes, where local authorities have often behaved as if life continues normally, residents may find these restrictions perplexing, sociologist Denis Volkov noted. “However, everyone understands that the ‘special operation’ is still in effect, and many will likely view this as a necessary course of action,” Volkov told Vedomosti.