'This is our home... we defend it' - Klitschko brothers vow to stay and fight in Ukraine
02.03.2022 - 22:41
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko and his brother, Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko have vowed to stay in Ukraine to fight against the Russian invasion.
Airing to BBC News on Wednesday afternoon, March 2, the brothers said they were 'proud' of the people who stayed in the city to defend it from Russian forces.
Vitali Klitschko and his brother Wladimir, who are both internationally renowned boxers, spoke to the BBC live from Kyiv.
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They vowed to remain in the country and continue to fight as the large scale Russian invasion continues.
Vitali said he'd seen a line "hours long" of civilians queuing up to get weapons and join in the fight.
He added he had been left surprised by people's 'patriotism'.
"Right now, people are proud," he said.
Wladimir said: "What should we do? This is our home.
"Our parents [are] buried here, [our] children go to school here. Why should we flee?
"What would you do if someone gets in to your house? You defend it."
Wladimir also urged the international community to give more support to Ukraine.
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He added there was a "huge demand" for food and water and that the aid beginning to arrive, "it's absolutely not enough".
"We need support and help, financial support and military equipment and medical support.
"This country is in the war. We are fighting for democracy and our choice.
"Civilians, men and women are dying. I am proud of the men and women fighting for the future of this country. It's amazing to observe."