Karate fighter Yevhen Pylypyuk explains why he did not return from abroad after the competition

Karate fighter Yevhen Pylypyuk explains why he did not return from abroad after the competition

The Ukrainian karateka Yevhen Pylypyuk, who did not return to Ukraine after participating in international competitions, recorded a video address where he explained the reasons for his decision.

According to the athlete, his coaches promised him exemption from mobilization and took $4,000 to assist with his admission to a graduate program, but they did not fulfill their commitments. They also failed to secure a coaching position for Yevhen at the Youth Sports School (DYUSSH), which could have provided a deferment from military service.

Pylypyuk noted that he decided to enroll in a foreign university to obtain a legal deferment. He also mentioned that his wife, Darya, who left with him and stayed abroad, recently gave birth to a child. The athlete emphasized that he now needs to support his family.

Yevhen acknowledged that he understands the criticism directed at him and believes that he acted incorrectly to some extent.