The Russian invasion of Ukraine has prompted athletes around the world to speak out in opposition to the war. For some Ukrainians, they have had to go much, much further. Leticia Bila reports.
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ports figures from around the world have responded to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine with strong words and actions urging peace in Eastern Europe. The sporting community has banished Russia from competition, as well as Belarus for the support they have given to Vladimir Putin’s aggression. International Federations have been urged by the International Olympic Committee to ban the two countries from events, in addition to stripping them of any hosting rights until further notice. Since Russian tanks moved in on February 24, a large number of athletes have made their voices heard and their positions clear. Ukrainian footballers Oleksandr Zinchenko of Manchester City and Vitaliy Mykolenko of Everton put competitiveness aside and embraced in tears as the crowd displayed banners and flags in support of Ukraine prior to the teams facing each other on February 26.
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The only two Ukrainian players in the NBA, Alex Len of the Sacramento Kings and Svi Mykhailiuk of Toronto Raptors, used their Twitter accounts to release a joint statement in full solidarity with their country. “A great tragedy befell our dear homeland Ukraine,” they said. “We categorically condemn the war. “Ukraine is a peaceful, sovereign state inhabited by people who want to decide their own destiny. We pray for our families, friends, relatives and all the people who are in the territory of Ukraine. “We hope for an end to this terrible war as soon as possible. Dear fellow Ukrainians, hold on! Our strength is in unity. We are with you!” The emotion continued as the Kings and Denver Nuggets held a moment of silence while linking arms with Len before their game. Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina published a “Letter to my Motherland” and stated her faithfulness despite being “far away”.
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