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Three years of war in Ukraine: Emotional statement from Zhytomyr footballer

24.02.2025 17:30
Maksym Chłań, a 22-year-old winger for Lechia Gdańsk, revealed that every Ukrainian player in the team has lost someone close due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Ukrainian player Maksym Chłań (L) of Lechia Gdańsk and Otar Kakabadze (R) of Cracovia in action during a Polish Ekstraklasa match in Gdańsk, November 3, 2024.
Ukrainian player Maksym Chłań (L) of Lechia Gdańsk and Otar Kakabadze (R) of Cracovia in action during a Polish Ekstraklasa match in Gdańsk, November 3, 2024.Photo: PAP/Piotr Matusewicz

On the 24th of February, we mark the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has caused over 12,000 civilian deaths, 30,000 injuries, and millions of people fleeing their homes. By 2025, Russia occupies 20% of Ukraine's territory, with significant territorial gains in 2024, while both sides have suffered heavy casualties, including around 100,000 Ukrainian deaths and up to 200,000 Russian deaths.

"I’m with my parents and younger sister, who live in Zhytomyr," said Maksym Chłań explaining the emotional toll.

On the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, he shared that while they talk about the war, it is hard to constantly think about the tragic news from home.

His parents remain in Zhytomyr, a city regularly targeted by Russian missiles, with his father unable to leave due to his age.

Despite offers from clubs across Europe and America, Chłań is focused on completing his contract with Lechia, with his father handling contract negotiations.

Source: IAR/PAP/X/@Lechianet

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