Ukraine has clear guidelines since the war of aggression by Russia: Actually, men between 18 and 60 are not allowed to leave the country. There is an exception for athletes. However, 7 players from Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO, Steam) have now been publicly criticized.
This is the situation:
- Male Ukrainians of conscription age (18-60) are generally not allowed to leave Ukraine.
- However, there is an exception for athletes participating in international tournaments. They are allowed to leave the country temporarily, but they must return to Ukraine immediately.
- The Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine has now published a list of 236 athletes who have violated this rule, including 7 players from CS:GO. The list includes 3 players and the CEO of Team “Monte,” who had surprisingly reached the quarterfinals of a major tournament.
What could happen to the players in the worst-case scenario? As escorenews reports, it is unclear what consequences there are for the players on this list.
A DOTA 2 caster speculates that the list could mean that the players who are on it may not be allowed to travel in the future.
– Ukraine Live Blog (via Zeit)
– War in Ukraine (via nzz)
– Solidarity with Ukraine (via auswärtiges-amt)
Important note: If you are struggling with dark thoughts due to the current situation: You are not alone. Please seek help. For example, from the telephone counseling service at 0800/111 0 111 or the online counseling, where you can also use a chat. It is free and applicable nationwide.
Team apologizes to the ministry but highlights significant achievements
This is what the professionals say: The team “Monte,” which is particularly affected by the list, employs 3 players and the CEO from Ukraine. All 4 are on the ministry’s list.
The team was the positive surprise at the major tournament Blast Paris Major. They defeated the actual top team Natus Vincere and made it into the top 8.
The team issued an apology on Telegram (via dotesports).
Two players decided to stay until the end of the Paris Major and only returned to Ukraine afterward. A third player traveled to Poland to play in the ESL Challenger League. But he is “coming back soon.”
The team’s statement ends with:
We have honored Ukraine and made it to the quarterfinals of the biggest tournament. They shouted “Glory to Ukraine” to millions of viewers. They mentioned the war in their interviews. They held meetings to assist the armed forces of Ukraine. And they continue to properly represent our country.
We apologize to the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine for not returning home in time to make all of the above possible.
