Ygeman is worried about the development around the Russian invasion of Ukraine and thinks - like what the Swedish Sports Confederation announced on Thursday - that it is unreasonable to participate in sports in Russia right now.
- I see that the football association and the bandy association have chosen not to do so, and I think they make the right decision.
It is difficult to see that it is possible to arrange safe and neat events under these conditions, says Anders Ygeman to SVT Sport.
During the day, the Swedish Football Association and the bandy association announced, among other things, that they do not intend to play matches in Russia as the situation is now.
Ygeman describes the development of the last 24 hours as depressing.
- We are entering a new dark period for Europe that we thought we would never return to, he says.
How worried are you?
- I am worried for the sake of Ukraine and for all the people who are affected by Russia's aggressions.
But I'm not particularly worried about Sweden.
The Foreign Ministry is currently advising against entering all of Ukraine and parts of Russia.
The Swedish athletes who work in the countries will get the support and help they need, says Anders Ygeman.
- In Ukraine, of course, one must make sure to leave Ukraine and put oneself in safety.
In Russia, it is possible to continue with the difficulties that it is.
We will of course help those who contact us, this also applies to the unions I have been in contact with today.
- We must of course help each other to ensure that it is as good as possible for the sport.
What is most important here and now?
- That the athletes can carry out their competitions in safety and security is the most important thing.
The most important thing in the big political arena is that Russia's aggressions cease.
What do you think about the development in the coming days?
- I think it will be really tough days.
There is no indication that Putin would back down, even if it were needed.
What we see in front of us is war simply in eastern Ukraine.