Despite the crimes of the Russian Federation against Ukrainian sports, our athletes demonstrate the world's will to victory - Andriy Yermak

Andriy Yermak stressed that all Ukrainian athletes are heroes, because they were preparing for competitions in extremely difficult conditions. “Despite all Russia's crimes against Ukrainian sports, Ukrainian athletes demonstrate the will of the world for victory. They still trained without even having adequate conditions: in the occupation, using homemade rods of pipe and car wheels, under fire and after receiving news about the death of loved ones, ”said the head of the head of state.

He stressed that it is important not to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to the competition. Andriy Yermak also noted that Russia is the only country in the world that violated the Olympic truce three times: in 2008, 2014 and 2022. As a result of Russian aggression, 490 Ukrainian athletes and coaches were killed, dozens were injured, more than 30 have passed through Russian captivity or are still in captivity.

520 sports facilities were damaged, including 15 bases of Olympic, Deflympic and Paralympic training.   The memory of the dead Ukrainian athletes was honored with a moment of silence. "It should be remembered that if it were not for the stability and courage of the Ukrainians who spoke and restrained the aggressor, the war would have spread further and, apparently, the Olympic Games in 2024 could not be at all," - said the head of the Presidential Office. Andriy Yermak thanked Mrs.

Paris for helping to convey the truth about everything that our athletes passed and wished them success. Ann Idalgo presented the great medals of Vermeil for bravery and heroism to Ukrainian athletes. “It is the highest distinction that Paris, the city of freedom, human rights and the city that supports you can be presented. And I do it with pride and great love. It is an honor for us to take a delegation of heroes here at the City Hall.