Celebrating Easter on the front lines: Rubryka’s photos from the east of Ukraine

Ukrainian defenders on the front lines are eagerly anticipating Easter – a time of hope and reconnection. This special day provides an opportunity at least to feel a spiritual connection with their families in the rear, even as they remain steadfast in protecting Ukraine from Russian invaders.

On this day, military chaplains bring holiday blessings to the brave soldiers in the positions, reading a prayer and consecrating the "paska", traditional Ukrainian Easter bread.

Prayers for the Ukrainian army, Victory over the enemy, and a just peace for Ukraine must be heard.

Rubryka's photo correspondent and a chaplain recently visited the positions of the Ukrainian defenders in Chasiv Yar and one of the villages near Bakhmut, Donetsk region, to document how Easter was celebrated in the midst of the war. To see the story in photos, check out the slide show.