In a provocative move, Russian authorities have begun erecting a Christmas tree in the occupied Ukrainian city of Mariupol, specifically at the site of a devastating attack where many civilians lost their lives. This location, near a theatre, is where families, including children, sought refuge from Russian airstrikes. The Mariupol City Council condemned the act, stating that the installation of the tree represents an attempt to erase the memories of those killed during the conflict, branding it a “bloody Christmas tree.”
The council’s statement, shared via Telegram on December 1, described the ongoing efforts of the occupiers as a means to shift attention away from their actions. “They want children not to honour their fallen peers there, but to dance in circles and celebrate beside the place where people were killed,” the post read.
Reopening of the Theatre Amidst Controversy
In addition to the Christmas tree, Russian officials plan to reopen the Donetsk Academic Regional Drama Theatre, which had been under reconstruction for over three years following its destruction during military airstrikes. The theatre is set to launch its new season with Russian productions of The Scarlet Flower and The Empress’s Favourite, both of which are adaptations of classic tales. The Mariupol City Council criticized this decision, stating, “They will quite literally be performing on the blood of murdered people.”
On March 16, 2022, the words “ДЕТИ” (“children”) were painted outside the theatre in large letters, aimed at indicating to Russian aircraft that civilians were sheltering inside. Tragically, despite this clear message, Russian forces bombed the building, resulting in the deaths of as many as 600 people, according to reports. Amnesty International characterized the attack as a “clear war crime.”
During the siege of Mariupol, which began on February 24, 2022, the theatre served as a critical refuge, providing shelter, food, and information to civilians. Between February 24 and March 4, approximately 100 people, including theatre staff and their families, took refuge there. The siege continued until May 20, 2022, when the last remaining Ukrainian defenders surrendered.
Impact and Reactions
The ongoing conflict has had a devastating impact on Mariupol’s civilian population. Ukraine estimates that around 25,000 civilians were killed, while more than 50,000 were forcibly deported. In contrast, Russian officials claim that only 3,000 civilians died in the city. The United Nations has verified 1,348 civilian deaths, but acknowledges that the actual number is likely much higher.
In 2023, construction teams from Saint Petersburg completed the reconstruction of the theatre. The reopening is scheduled for this month, a move that has drawn significant criticism given the site’s tragic history.
On November 25, 2023, Ukraine announced it had agreed to “the core terms” of a peace deal facilitated by the United States. This proposal, originally set forth by the Trump administration, includes a controversial framework that requires Ukraine to cede territory in the Donbas region, which encompasses Mariupol, as well as Crimea. Details regarding modifications to the terms remain unclear.
As the situation in Mariupol continues to unfold, the decision to install a Christmas tree at such a sensitive location highlights the ongoing tensions and deep divisions resulting from the conflict.
