It is often said that sports and politics do not mix, but sometimes, it isn't easy to separate the two. Ukrainian fans at their national team’s match against Belgium drew the eyes of all of Europe to the issue of armed conflicts. They appeared in the stands holding a huge banner and a unique photograph, referencing the war raging in their country for over two years.

On Thursday, 24 February 2022, Russian troops, under the orders of Vladimir Putin, entered Ukrainian territory. For more than two years, we have been witnessing a full-scale war across Poland's eastern border. Virtually all of the European Union and NATO countries are doing everything to support Ukraine's leader, Volodymyr Zelensky. Tanks, arms, and ammunition are being sent in. Unfortunately, there is no indication that Russia is even considering ending the bloody conflict.

The match between Ukraine and Belgium took place on Wednesday, 26 June. Many fans from across Poland's eastern border were present in the stands. There would have been nothing unusual about this were it not for the fact that they arrived at the stadium holding a massive banner with a significant inscription: "Peace has a price. Thousands of football fans have been killed in the war since February 2022." They also carried a picture of a soldier: a mosaic made from photographs of fallen Ukrainian soldiers.

The Ukrainian fans wanted to remind everyone that a bloody and full-scale war is still ongoing in their country. They chose to do this at a sporting event known for its colour, joy, smiles, and great fun. Once again, the eyes of Europe turned to Poland's eastern neighbours. While most of us continue living our usual lives, Ukrainians are fighting for their lives and their country's sovereignty.