Ukrainian fans' poignant banner at Euro 2024 highlights ongoing war

On Wednesday, June 26, the final group stage matches of Euro 2024 took place. The national teams of Ukraine and Belgium faced each other. Many fans from Ukraine were present in the stands. They brought a special banner and a photograph to the match.

It is often said that sports should not be mixed with politics. Sometimes, however, it is tough to separate them. Thanks to the efforts of Ukrainian fans at their national team’s match against Belgium, the eyes of all of Europe were drawn to the problem of armed conflicts. These fans appeared in the stands holding a huge banner and a particular photograph referring to the war that has been ongoing in their country for over two years.

Let us recall that on Thursday, 24 February 2022, Russian troops, on Vladimir Putin's orders, entered Ukrainian territories. For over two years, we have witnessed a full-scale war. The entire European Union and NATO countries are doing everything to support Volodymyr Zelensky, the leader of Ukraine. Tanks, weapons, and ammunition are being sent. Unfortunately, there is no indication that Russia is even considering ending the bloody conflict.

On Wednesday, 26 June, there was a match between Ukraine and Belgium. Many fans from Ukraine were present in the stands. This would not be extraordinary if not for the fact that they appeared in the stadium holding a massive banner with a particular inscription: "Peace has a price. Thousands of football fans have been killed in the war since February 2022". Additionally, they carried a photograph of a soldier, which is a collage of photos of murdered football fans.

By doing this, the Ukrainian fans wanted to remind everyone that a bloody and full-scale war is still ongoing in their country. They did this at a sporting event known for its vibrancy, joy, smiles, and fun. While most of us live as we did before, Ukrainians are fighting for the lives and sovereignty of their own country.