Russia’s Political Will Questioned by Ukraine Official

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, expressed concerns over Russia’s lack of political will towards a ceasefire and ending the ongoing war. During an online meeting with representatives of the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ukrainian Association of Football, Yermak discussed efforts to prevent Russia’s national team from participating in the upcoming FIFA World Cup. He emphasized the need for solidarity within the global sports community and urged FIFA to not allow representatives of the aggressor state to take part in major sporting events.

Yermak highlighted that the International Olympic Committee had already banned Russia from team sports competitions due to the conflict. He firmly stated, “Russia shows no political will toward a ceasefire and ending the war so far. That’s why it would be a grave mistake to speak of meeting Russia halfway or allowing them to take part in football championships.” Yermak also pointed out that Russian sports organizations are controlled by the state and used as tools of influence, urging that football should not be a platform for aggressor propaganda.

The statement from Andriy Yermak comes amid ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with the former calling for international support in holding Russia accountable for its actions. The official website of the President of Ukraine provided further details on the meeting and Yermak’s stance on the issue. The link to the original statement can be found on the President of Ukraine’s website.