MFA: Russia killed 591 Ukrainian athletes and coaches, 22 are in captivity

This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on social network X.

“As of March 2025, 591 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been killed by Russia, 22 are held captive, and 11 are missing. 725 sports facilities have been damaged or destroyed by Russian attacks, including 17 Olympic, Paralympic, and Deaflympic training bases,” the statement reads.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that for decades, Russia has used sports for propaganda, and 10 out of 15 Russian athletes who competed under a neutral flag at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris either publicly supported the war or were associated with the military.

“Russian sports are not separate from the state – they are one of the tools for justifying and inciting aggression. Those who say that sports should be outside of politics must also recognize that Russia uses sports as a political weapon,” the Ministry emphasized.

While Ukraine strives for peace, Russia continues to launch missiles and undermine global peace efforts, the foreign department noted, warning that there should be no place for Russia in international sports until it stops its atrocities against Ukraine.

As reported, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, during the UEFA Congress in the capital of Serbia on April 3, expressed hope for Russia’s return to international football.