The festivities took place in Azizieh square, an area under firm government control, according to RT. The area was decorated with seasonal cheer as well as portraits of Syrian President Bashar Al Assad flanked by posters of Russian and Hezbollah leaders.

Just days ago, fighting raged in eastern Aleppo as the Syrian government and its allies fought to regain full control of the city. Over the past few days, rebel fighters and their supporters have been evacuated from the city in a ceasefire agreement.

Thus, this Christmas celebration marks a victory for the Syrian government and its supporters.