28 May 2014
MEDIA RELEASE
Ukrainian World Congress calls for FIFA to revoke Russia’s privilege to host 2018 World Cup
On 28 May 2014 Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) President Eugene Czolij issued a letter to the President of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), Joseph S. Blatter, calling for FIFA to revoke the privilege of Russia to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
The letter highlighted the aspirations of the Ukrainian people to live in dignity in a democratic country that respects human rights and fundamental freedoms, where the rule of law prevails and European values are espoused. The ability of Ukrainians to shape the future of their choice, however, is being illegally and brutally sabotaged by Russia, an aggressor that refuses to respect Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity.
The importance of sport as a force for global unity and peace is indisputable. The blatant disregard by President Vladimir Putin for international law, including the UN Charter, and his total disdain for the calls of the international community to cease Russia’s aggression, violate the principles of FIFA and fundamentally undermine the spirit of sport.
“The Ukrainian World Congress calls for FIFA to add its voice to the condemnation of Russia’s actions by the international community by revoking Russia’s privilege to host the 2018 World Cup, an honor of which Russia has proven itself unworthy,” stated UWC President Eugene Czolij.
