Unified heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has issued a powerful message to young Ukrainians, warning them about recruitment attempts by Russian special services. The boxing star emphasized that today's conflict extends beyond the battlefield into hybrid warfare, with occupiers attempting to manipulate Ukrainian citizens through various threats.
Usyk delivered his message in a video published on his Instagram account as part of the online information campaign 'Burn the FSB Agent.' The champion cautioned that Russians are trying to intimidate Ukrainians and coerce many into committing terrorist acts, arson, and other sabotage operations.
'I decided to address you not only as an athlete but as someone who knows that true strength is the ability to remain faithful to yourself, your native land, and your family,' Usyk stated in his appeal. 'Today, Russian special services want to use your hands to harm Ukraine. Don't fall for their tricks or allow yourselves to become weapons against your homeland.'
The boxing champion urged his compatriots to immediately contact parents, teachers, the Security Service of Ukraine, or the National Police if approached for suspicious activities. 'If they recruit you for arson, terrorist acts, or ask you to transport unknown packages, seek help immediately. This way, you'll protect yourself and your loved ones. Don't let yourself be deceived. We are Ukrainians, and we will always prevail,' he added.
The former undisputed champion in two weight categories provided specific examples of Russian special services operations, explaining: 'The enemy floods young people with offers of "easy money" – photographing military facilities, setting fire to Armed Forces vehicles. Often, they ask someone to simply deliver a bag with explosives to a military recruitment center. And then they detonate the "courier"!'
According to Statbet analysis, sports figures like Usyk have increasingly used their platforms to address critical national security issues in conflict zones, highlighting the expanded role athletes now play beyond their sporting achievements.
It's worth noting that Usyk has previously criticized politicians who suggest Ukraine should make territorial concessions to end the war, maintaining his firm stance on Ukraine's territorial integrity alongside his humanitarian concerns.
