President Vladimir Putin has urged government officials to work over the lengthy New Year's holidays, saying they "cannot afford" to take the time off amid the country's economic crisis. Much of Russia comes to a standstill during the 10-day official holidays that run from New Year's Day until after Orthodox Christmas. With weekends factored in, most of the country's employees will be off until Jan. 11 this year - but not government officials, Putin told a Cabinet meeting on Dec. 25.
Russia's War Against Ukraine
The Moscow Times: Putin says officials shouldn’t take 10-day holiday during economic crisis
Pedestrians are reflected in the enclosure of a Christmas fair on Moscow's Red Square on Dec. 25, 2014.
