Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, World Taekwondo stripped Russian President Vladimir Putin of his honorary black belt this week. According to the report, the organisation criticized Putin’s activities in Ukraine, stating that the brutal onslaught on innocent lives contradicted its motto, “Peace is More Precious than Triumph.” World Taekwondo stated that it has decided to revoke the honorary 9th Dan black belt granted to Mr. Vladimir Putin in November 2013.
World Taekwondo also stated that the Russian flag and anthem will not be shown or performed during competitions. The International Olympic Committee announced a similar prohibition last week. The International Judo Federation took a similar step on Sunday, removing Putin’s honorary presidency and ambassadorship in view of the current military crisis in Ukraine. According to intelligence officials, Russian soldiers came closer to Kyiv on Tuesday than ever before, as part of a plan to seize the Ukrainian capital. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has maintained that his country will not back down, declaring on Tuesday that Ukrainians are fighting for their rights, their independence, and their lives.
Source: Viewers Corner News.