Photos of Georgian soldiers who died in Ukraine, which had been placed in the space intended for the New Year’s holiday, have been temporarily moved to the Heroes’ Square, near the memorial of heroes killed in the fight for the territorial integrity of Georgia. Such a statement was released by the Tbilisi City Hall.

“New Year is celebrated and cities are decorated with Christmas trees even in war-torn Ukraine. Against this background, the attempt of individual politicians to take away the New Year from the people of Tbilisi, to wrap the Christmas tree with black ribbons and to place the photographs of the killed fighters in the festive space, does not fit into any moral framework.

The Tbilisi City Hall decided to transfer the photos of the fighters who have died in Ukraine to the memorial of heroes fallen for the unity of Georgia. In this way, first of all, we will honor the memory of the deceased and the people of Tbilisi will be given the opportunity to properly celebrate the New Year.

Everyone, especially kids, are looking forward to the New Year with joy. The capital’s main Christmas tree and Rustaveli Avenue should be a place where people can find happiness and joy during the New Year holiday”, - reads the statement.