Kiev is organizing its first major marathon since the start

Kiev is organizing its first major marathon since the start of the Russian invasion

Thousands of runners took part in a marathon in Kiev this weekend, the first of this magnitude organized in Ukraine since Russia’s invasion of the country began in February 2022.

• Also read: Ukraine is doing everything it can to get more financial aid

• Also read: Ukraine: Nine injured in oil pipeline fire

• Also read: Ukraine says it destroyed 31 drones in a Russian attack in the south

Last year, the event called the Invincibility Marathon was canceled. This time over 5,000 people were able to gather for the Sunday event over distances of between 5 and 42 kilometers.

“You should try to make your life easier in every way you can,” said Vlada, a 32-year-old participant, adding: “If exercise helps you deal with anxiety or other difficult situations in life, you have to do it. “ .”

Half of the recorded revenue will be used to purchase military equipment for the Ukrainian army.

The race came as Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal warned last week that Russia had launched a new campaign of airstrikes on the country’s energy infrastructure.

Last winter, the Ukrainian grid was attacked several times, causing millions of people, including in Kiev, to lose electricity, heat and water.