President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the forum “Innovation and Development in Sports During Wartime.” The event was held at the National University of Physical Education and Sport of Ukraine (NUPESU), which marks its 95th anniversary this year.
“I have great respect for sports, for everyone who brings honor to Ukraine, who trains to better themselves, to stay energized, to serve the state, and for all those who coach others," the President noted.
The forum focused on the importance of veteran sports and the integration of defenders into civilian life, drawing on the best Ukrainian and international practices. In particular, a new concept for the development of adaptive sports was presented, incorporating the American TotalFit methodology, which involves a holistic approach to recovery.
Participants also discussed the development of military-technological sports. In addition, a concept for advancing sports science in Ukraine was presented (the Olympic Lab project).
At the NUPESU Rehabilitation Center, the Head of State was briefed on how physical and sports-based rehabilitation is being carried out for defenders. The process includes specialized sessions involving therapeutic exercises and device-assisted physiotherapy.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that the state must give serious attention to veteran sports, rehabilitation, and adaptation – and that all of this must meet the highest standards.
“Veterans are our heroes. They are an integral part of our society. We must understand that veterans should feel fully included in our shared space – just like everyone else. And with deep respect for what they’ve done, for having defended our independence,” the President added.
According to him, accessibility and the development of appropriate infrastructure are very important.
While speaking with young people, the Head of State expressed his belief that it is the youth – with their modern perspectives and knowledge – who can help build the infrastructure that veterans will greatly need in peacetime.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stressed the need to develop sports infrastructure, without which it would be impossible to engage large numbers of people in physical activity or achieve strong results in professional sports.
The President was also shown modern equipment used to study athletes’ physical responses under load and during training.
