Russia's invasion, which began in February 2022, has also been a source of religious controversy within the Eastern Orthodox Church and has driven a split among believers in both Russia and Ukraine.Vi

Kyiv has said that Russia is "getting what it deserves" after Ukraine launched a new offensive in Kursk over the weekend.

With soaring inflation and the ruble dropping to one of its lowest levels against the dollar since President Vladimir Putin launched his war in Ukraine, this year Russians will have to pay more for the dish, which is traditionally served alongside caviar and tangerines, before the New Year is toasted in.

Russia has announced the capture of the key Ukrainian town of Kurakhove as fierce fighting continues on both sides of the border.