Unified heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has extended a provocative invitation to former U.S. president Donald Trump, suggesting that he spend a week in Usyk's home to gain a firsthand understanding of the realities of war in Ukraine. Usyk's comment follows Trump's controversial claim that, if elected again, he could resolve the Ukraine conflict "within 24 hours."
Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Trump has been critical of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, attributing blame for the conflict's escalation. In stark contrast, Usyk, who dedicated his victory over Anthony Joshua in 2022 to the people of Ukraine, stated, "I advise American President Donald Trump to come to Ukraine and live in my house for one week."
He continued, illustrating the omnipresent dangers, "Every night there are bombs and flights above my house. Bombs, rockets. Every night. It's enough." As the war continues to rage on, the impact on civilians in the region has been devastating, with losing lives spanning children, women, and the elderly.
Reflecting on whether Trump's views would change if he spent time in Ukraine, Usyk remained uncertain but stressed the urgency of understanding the ongoing tragedy: "Ukrainian people are dying... For me, it’s hard. It’s my country. I worry about what happens in my country."
A staunch advocate for peace since the conflict began, Usyk has been vocal about Ukraine's plight and works alongside fellow athletes like the Klitschko brothers. As he prepares for his upcoming fight against Daniel Dubois on July 19 at Wembley Stadium, the champion continues to balance his professional aspirations with a compelling dedication to his homeland’s struggle.
