In light of Russia’s recognition of breakaway areas in eastern Ukraine, calls for Champions League final to be moved from Russia

ukrainian conflict

The UEFA European Football Union announced that there were “currently no plans to change the venue”. The situation is being closely monitored. According to information from the German Press Agency, the association will advise again on Tuesday on how to proceed.

British foreign policy expert Tom Tugendhat heavily criticized UEFA. “It’s a shameful decision. UEFA should not cover a violent dictatorship,” the conservative politician tweeted.

Regarding international matches for Russian champions Zenit St. Petersburg, UEFA said it was in close contact with interested national associations and clubs. “Currently it is planned that all the games will take place as planned,” he said. Zenit faces Betis Sevilla this Thursday in the second leg of the Europa League in Spain.

The final of Europe’s top club soccer competition is scheduled for May 28 in Saint Petersburg, the hometown of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Despite international protests, the Kremlin chief recently recognized the self-proclaimed people’s republics of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine as independent and sent Russian troops to the areas. Britain, the EU and the US immediately announced sanctions.

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