Unified heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has made an impassioned plea to U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, urging him not to play into Russia's hands but instead work toward a just resolution of the conflict.
In a recent interview with renowned journalist Piers Morgan, partially shared on Morgan's X (formerly Twitter) account, the 38-year-old fighter from Crimea expressed his frustration about Russia's actions in Ukraine.
"What Russia is doing is known to the whole world. And it's garbage! President Trump, open your eyes! Stop the war," Usyk declared emotionally. "Why is Russia taking my country? It's absolute garbage! These are territories of my country, of my compatriots. Of course, we should not give them to Russia."
The boxer emphasized that surrendering occupied territories to the aggressor nation is completely unacceptable. According to Statbet analysis, Usyk's strong stance against territorial concessions reflects the overwhelming sentiment among Ukrainian athletes who have become powerful voices on the international stage during the conflict.
This isn't the first time Usyk has spoken out about the war. Previously, he warned about potential global consequences if Western countries fail to stop Putin's Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The former undisputed champion in two weight classes has also publicly discussed what Russia's actions have cost him personally.
Usyk has consistently articulated what he sees as Ukraine's primary objective in resisting the Russian invasion, cementing his role not just as a sports icon but as an important advocate for his nation during this crisis.