Ukrainian President Strips Coach of State Stipend for Fleeing to Belarus

Vyacheslav Lavrukhin Loses Presidential Stipend

According to Главком: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revoked the presidential stipend of Vyacheslav Lavrukhin, the senior coach of Ukraine's national artistic gymnastics team, following his departure for Belarus. The decree was published on the President's official website. The decision was based on clause 7 of the Regulations on Presidential Stipends for Outstanding and Young, Promising Athletes of Ukraine in Olympic Sports and Their Coaches, approved by Presidential Decree No. 844/2019 on November 13, 2019. This action highlights the government's stance on individuals leaving the country during wartime.

Athletic Achievements and Reactions

Vyacheslav Lavrukhin coached gymnast Igor Radivilov for over 20 years. Radivilov is the 2024 European champion in artistic gymnastics, a bronze medalist at the 2012 Olympic Games, and a multiple medalist at European and World Championships. In 2018, Lavrukhin was granted a warrant for a one-room apartment in a building on Solomiya Krushelnytska Street in Kyiv's Darnytskyi district. This housing was provided to improve living conditions for winners of the 2012 London and 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic and Paralympic Games and their coaches. It is noted that Lavrukhin is a displaced person from the Donetsk region.

Igor Radivilov commented on the decision to strip Lavrukhin of the stipend, stating:

'That is his decision. For me, it was unexpected.'

Vladyslav Heraskevych also expressed his opinion regarding the actions of athletes who leave the country:

'They completely abandon their Homeland during a war. Because the state allegedly did not provide them with what they deserve. Although they received so much money that such funding for one athlete can only be dreamed of. And for me, this is generally wild, which is why I react this way. And my opinion does not change: this is a shameful act, and I know that many people share this opinion with me.'

This case underscores the tensions within society and the athletic community during the war, as many choose to leave the country in search of better training and living conditions. The loss of Lavrukhin's stipend may serve as a signal to other athletes about the consequences of their actions, particularly leaving Ukraine during a difficult time. The situation also reflects broader socio-political sentiments in Ukraine, where questions of patriotism and state support have become especially acute during the conflict.

The recent decision to revoke Vyacheslav Lavrukhin's presidential stipend raises questions about the implications for other coaches and athletes in similar situations. Notably, this follows the case of another prominent figure in the gymnastics community who has also relocated to Belarus, prompting discussions about loyalty and commitment during challenging times. For further insights into this developing story, you can read more about the disappearance of Ukraine's head gymnastics coach.