As Russia's military invasion continues, the chairman of the Ukrainian Paralympic Committee, who participates in the Beijing Paralympics, responded to an independent interview with NHK, saying, "The reason we are here is to show the existence of Ukraine to the world and stop the war. ", Emphasizing the significance of participating in the Paralympics.
The Ukrainian team, whose participation in the Paralympics was threatened by the military invasion by Russia, had 20 athletes entering China just before the tournament and had won 19 medals including 6 gold medals by the 7th day of the tournament. increase.
Regarding this, Ukrainian Paralympic Committee Chairman Sishkevic said in an independent interview with NHK, "Ukrainians are impressed and pleased to see the athletes competing while missiles are flying, and the purpose is to live. It has become. "
On top of that, "It's special to win a medal, but the reason we are here is to show the world the existence of Ukraine and to work together to stop the war," said the significance of the players participating in the Paralympics. Was emphasized.
He also expressed his earnest feelings toward Russia, which continues its military invasion during the Paralympics, saying, "It is a threat not only to Ukraine but to all countries. Please do not attack Ukraine."
The Ukrainian team is planning to participate in the closing ceremony on the 13th of this month with all the athletes and then return to Japan.