Ukrainian athletes leave Sochi due to violent protests in Kiev
Despite a truce called between Ukraine President Vikto Yanukovych and the opposition, fighting continued in Kiev on Thursday morning, causing some Ukrainian athletes to withdraw from the Olympics.
International Olympic Committee say some Ukrainian athletes have left Sochi Winter Olympics given violence and unrest in their country.
— Richard Conway (@richard_conway) February 20, 2014
Ukrainian skier withdraws from #Sochi2014 over #Kiev killings: "outraged by recent actions of President of #Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych"
— Kirit Radia (@KiritRadia) February 20, 2014
With the protest becoming violent and escalating in recent days, International Olympic Committee spokesman, Mark Adams, confirmed that Ukrainian athletes have departed Sochi due to the turmoil.
"I believe some of them have decided to return home and (Ukraine Olympic Committee president) Sergey Bubka has said he absolutely respects every individual's right to make their own decision," Adams said, via Reuters.
In midst of the ongoing protests, Ukraine is also one of the applicants bidding to host the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Ukraine is one of five applicants to host 2022 Winter Games. Not liking the chances of that bid. IOC meets in July.
— Chris Fowler (@cbfowler) February 20, 2014
Ukraine sent 45 athletes to Sochi, and is currently tied for 25th with one medal.