Ukrainian defender killed the Russian occupier
According to information from the 'Glavcom' news platform, the defense forces of Ukraine successfully eliminated the Russian occupier Yevhen Popov. This man, who practiced karate in his childhood and had a 'candidate for master of sports' rank, joined the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
According to Russian sources, Popov was a drone operator, and he was eliminated by Ukrainian defenders during combat operations in Kursk on May 13, 2025.
A farewell ceremony for the occupier took place on November 21, attended by Russian speed skater Alexandra Sautina, recognized as a neutral athlete. This event was organized by Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Involvement of athletes in propaganda events
On February 29, 2024, Putin's annual address to the Federal Assembly took place, where athlete Veronika Stepanova posted a photo on Instagram alongside Sautina at the event. Both athletes participated in the propaganda event alongside Russian military personnel and Putin supporters involved in the conflict with Ukraine.
This involvement in propaganda events violates the International Olympic Committee's recommendations regarding neutral athletes. The next Olympics is scheduled for 2026 in Italy, from February 6 to 22.
The Ukrainian defender killed the Russian occupier during combat operations in Kursk. This event reflects Ukraine's active participation in the war against the Russian invasion and the involvement of information in Russian propaganda. At the same time, the participation of athletes in propaganda events violates the principles of neutrality in the context of global conflicts at the international level.