Russians wish for peace and good health in 2026

Russians in central Moscow welcomed 2026 with hopes for peace and an end to the war in Ukraine, despite Red Square being closed and no fireworks planned for the holiday. Crowds still gathered near the Kremlin and Bolshoi Theatre to celebrate and take photos of festive decorations.

REUTERS

1 January 2026 at 03:54:08

Russians in central Moscow usher in 2026 with hopes for peace as Red Square remains closed and Kremlin under heavy security.

Anastasia Barashkova

With just hours to go before 2026, many Russians visiting the landmarks of central Moscow on Wednesday (December 31) expressed hopes that the new year would bring peace and an end to the war with neighboring Ukraine.

This New Year’s Eve, Moscow’s famous Red Square—a traditional site for celebrations—remained closed to visitors until the morning of January 1, while a heavy police presence was visible around the Kremlin.

Nevertheless, crowds gathered near the Kremlin walls and the iconic Bolshoi Theatre, taking photos with Christmas and New Year’s decorations.

New Year’s Day is Russia’s main seasonal holiday, while Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7.

Although there will be no fireworks in Moscow this year for Russia’s biggest family holiday, the capital is bustling in nearly every other way, much like during previous New Year celebrations.

—Reuters