Russian Gorodki Player Killed; Gymnast Publicly Backs Moscow’s War

Death of Vladimir Yartsev

According to Главком: A 56-year-old Russian soldier and gorodki player, Vladimir Yartsev, has been killed. The Karelia Gorodki Sports Federation confirmed his death, noting he had run countless master classes and competitions with them. However, pro-Kremlin media have not disclosed when or how Yartsev died. His farewell service is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, in Petrozavodsk.

Gymnast Ilteryakova’s Pro-War Stance

Separately, Russian gymnast Ilteryakova has drawn attention for openly supporting the war against Ukraine. On Instagram, she liked posts featuring Vladimir Putin and Russian military personnel. She also follows the account of Nikita Nagorny, who is under sanctions from Ukraine, Canada, the US, the UK, and the European Union. In addition, Ilteryakova follows and has liked posts from Russian propagandist Shaman, who is sanctioned by Canada, the EU, and Ukraine. She has also subscribed to a fan page of Alina Kabaeva, who faces sanctions from Canada, the UK, the EU, the US, and Ukraine.

These developments highlight how the war in Ukraine continues to ripple through Russian society, even affecting the sports world. The killing of Yartsev, a former gorodki athlete, underscores the human cost of the conflict. Meanwhile, Ilteryakova’s public alignment with sanctioned figures illustrates the deepening divide between those who support the invasion and those who oppose it, adding further tension within athletic and social circles.

The ongoing conflict has not only claimed lives but also significantly impacted various sectors, including sports. In a similar vein, the recent elimination of a seasoned boxing coach who dedicated over two decades to youth training illustrates the profound effects of the war on athletic communities. For more on the implications of these losses within the sports world, read about the impact of the war on sports training in Ukraine.