Zelensky reveals how many athletes have died during the war

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky announced the number of athletes who have died during Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine. According to him, the figure exceeds 600 athletes and coaches.

He shared this information on Monday, September 1, on X.

Zelensky on athlete losses during the war

On Monday, September 1, Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry.

The Ukrainian leader congratulated her on her election, wished her success, and expressed gratitude for the IOC’s support of Ukraine and Ukrainian athletes.

"Unfortunately, Russia continues its aggression and makes no steps toward peace. Today, there is no greater destroyer of sports infrastructure – and even of the very principles of Olympism – than the Russian state," the president stated.

Zelensky emphasized that during the full-scale war, more than 600 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have died as a result of Russian attacks, and hundreds of our sports facilities have been destroyed.

He also added that every sporting event Russia gets involved in is always twisted to serve its state propaganda, which is propaganda of hatred and war.

"That is why it is crucial to maintain distance between the sports movement and this Russian evil. We discussed, in particular, preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. Not only Ukraine, but many other countries defending life equally count on the IOC to maintain the principled stance it upheld during the Paris Games toward aggressive Russia and its accomplice, Belarus.

We are ready to share all necessary information. I will be glad to welcome Ms. Kirsty to Ukraine," the country’s leader concluded.

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