Vitali Klitschko says he will take up arms against Russian invaders
Former heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko fought in the ring. Now he’s willing to fight for his country.
Klitschko, the mayor of the Ukrainian capital of Kiev, said on the ITV “Good Morning Britain” show that he will take up arms against the Russian forces that have invaded his country if necessary.
The Russians were advancing toward Kiev as of Thursday evening.
“I believe in Ukraine, I believe in my country and I believe in my people,” said Klitschko, 50. “I will be fighting. I don’t have another choice. I have to do that.”
Vitali and younger brother Wladimir, also a former champion, released a video on Thursday pleading for the world to see the futility of the invasion.
“I call on international partners to look at the tragedy that is happening now in Ukraine and this senseless war isn’t going to have winners, but losers,” Wladimir Klitschko said. “Do not allow what is happening in Ukraine, do not allow what is happening in Europe and the world.
“United we are strong. We support Ukraine. Thank you.”