Cover-Credits:
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began early Thursday morning, with shelling and rocket attacks on several major cities including the capital, Kyiv, causing multiple deaths. Explosions were reported near the Kyiv airport and other cities causing martial law to be implemented by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Several players and organizations in the esports community have joined hands and stood in solidarity with the Ukrainian victims. Many influential members of the esports community shared their experiences or offered support and prayers to those affected by the tragedy.
Esports community stands in solidarity with victims in Ukraine
Ukrainian CS:GO pro-Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev revealed on Twitter that his city was being shelled and pleaded online, “Please, please, stop, I can't do this anymore, we all need peace”. His feelings resonate with other citizens of his country and beyond, and many members of the esports community offered their support to him.
Pro players and influential streamers including Timothy “timthetatman” John Betar, Yassine "Subroza" Taoufik, Gabriel "FalleN" Toledo showed support while other members of the esports community voiced its opinions against the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Valorant pro Tyson “TenZ” Ngo said on Twitter, “I can’t believe what is happening in the world right now. It actually makes me feel sick to my stomach.” He also expressed his disapproval ofpeople making memes about the situation amidst the crisis. Two-time The International (TI) champion Johan "N0tail" Sundstein and Gambit Esports’ Valorant IGL Igor "Redgar" Vlasov said they wanted the crisis to end peacefully. Peter "Asuna" Mazuryk , who is of Ukrainian descent said that he appreciated those messaging him inquiring about his family and said he was praying for everyone in Ukraine.
Esports organization Natus Vincere released a statement talking about how there are hostilities that are taking lives and destroying destinies in Ukraine. It stated, “it is impossible that during this war we pretend everything is okay, it is not. We are devastated. Our main goal right now is to try and stay calm and take care of ourselves, our loved ones, and those who need help.”
A number of esports organizations including Astralis, Ninjas in Pyjamas, Fnatic, and G2 Esports changed their logos temporarily to show solidarity with Ukraine. Team Liquid co-founder Victor Goossens is even opening up the team’s Netherlands apartments for a non-Liquid player stuck in another country. He also revealed that the team was willing to help others facing similar circumstances with accommodation amidst the crisis.
The world does not need wars, let alone another one after the brutal ones our civilization has experienced throughout history. Here’s hoping the crisis in Ukraine is resolved as quickly and peacefully as possible. AFK Gaming stands in solidarity with the victims in Ukraine and for peace in the region.
