Ukrainian Athletes Prepare for Olympics Amid War

Ukrainian athletes are heading to the Paris Olympics amidst a devastating war with Russia, now in its third year, which has severely impacted the country's sports infrastructure and personnel. The conflict has destroyed over 500 sports facilities and forced many coaches and athletes to flee or join the army, diminishing Ukraine's sports prowess. Despite these challenges, athletes like eight-year-old Oleksandra Paskal, who lost her leg in a missile attack, continue to train and compete, embodying resilience and hope. The Ukrainian team aims to use the global stage of the Olympics to highlight their nation's struggle for survival and freedom. Historically a strong competitor, Ukraine's performance has declined since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, and the ongoing war continues to chip away at their Olympic edge. Ukrainian athletes, now training under dire conditions, see their participation and potential victories as a way to keep the war and their country's plight in the global spotlight.