Manchester City defender Oleksandr Zinchenko and former AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko are among the prominent sporting stars from Ukraine to have called for solidarity within their country as political tension in the region escalates.
Russia has begun a large-scale attack on its Eastern European neighbor, with military convoys entering Ukrainian soil from all directions on the orders of president Vladimir Putin, who confirmed a “special military operation” in Ukraine.
MORE: Champions League final pulled from Russia after invasion
Explosions have been heard across the nation, with Putin stating that resistance from outside powers will be met with an “instant” response, sparking serious concern among those that call that part of the world home.
What did Zinchenko say about the Russia invasion of Ukraine?
Ukraine international Zinchenko, who plies his club trade for the Premier League champions in England, posted a message on Instagram after news of the Russian invasion.
“The whole civilized world is worried about the situation in my country. I can’t stay away and try to hide my opinion.
“In the photo - my country. The country where I was born and raised. A country whose colors I defend in the international sports arena. A country that we try to glorify and develop. A country whose borders must remain inviolable.
“My country belongs to Ukrainians and no one will ever be able to appropriate it. We will not give up! Glory to Ukraine.”
What did Shevchenko say about the Russian invasion of Ukraine?
Zinchenko’s sentiments were echoed by ex-Milan and Chelsea forward Shevchenko, who left his role as manager of the Ukraine national side in August 2021.
The 2004 Ballon d’Or winner has said on social media: “Ukraine is my motherland!
“I have always been proud of my people and my country! We have gone through many difficult times, and over the past 30 years we have formed as a nation! A nation of sincere, hardworking and freedom-loving citizens!
“This is our most important asset! Today is a difficult time for all of us. But we must unite! In unity we will win! Glory to Ukraine!”
What other Ukrainian soccer players have spoken out?
Roman Yaremchuk, who unveiled an emblem in support of his homeland after scoring for Benfica against Ajax in the Champions League on Wednesday, just prior to the full-scale invasion which began later that day, has also taken to social media.
Yaremchuk said on Instagram, “I am Ukrainian and I am proud of that. Being thousands of kilometres away from my native country, I want to support everyone who is now in tension in their native land, now is the time to unite.
“This is our country, our history, our culture, our people and our borders. I would like to thank our defenders for their courage. Glory to Ukraine.”
What Russian soccer players have spoken out?
Russia international striker Fyodor Smolov, who plays for Dynamo Moscow, has appeared to condemn the actions of his country in a social media post that reads: “No war!!!”