Ukrainian weightlifting champion Oleksandr Pielieshenko killed in action

Oleksandr Pielieshenko, 30, a prominent Ukrainian weightlifter and twice European champion, died tragically in the continuing conflict with Russia, according to the Ukrainian Weightlifting Federation on Monday.

Pielieshenko's incredible career included European gold medals in 2016 and 2017, cementing his standing as the sport's leading power. Despite finishing fourth in the 85kg division in the 2016 Rio Olympics, he demonstrated clear international capability.

The Ukrainian Weightlifting Federation issued a melancholy statement in which it stated, "It is with great sadness that we have to tell you that the heart of the great Ukrainian sportsman Oleksandr Pielieshenko has stopped beating."

Victor Slobodianiuk, Ukraine's national weightlifting coach, paid respect to Pielieshenko's sacrifice in a poignant Facebook post, stating that he "died a hero defending Ukraine."

Pielieshenko's devotion to his nation went beyond weightlifting. He volunteered in the Ukrainian army in Feb. 2022, just as the Russian invasion began, a choice that highlighted his unshakeable commitment to protecting his motherland, according to the Ukrainian Olympic Committee.

Source: AFP