On August 9, Odessa hosted a sports event that brought together athletes, coaches, veterans, military personnel, and volunteers from across the country to unite for an important cause - supporting the fighters of the elite unit «Artan». The tournament was organized by the Public Organization «Professional Sambo League» with the support of the Odessa City Council.
The program featured professional matches with leading athletes from Ukraine, performances by honored guests, veterans, artists, and a charity auction, with proceeds going to help «Artan».
«Sports shape character, love for life, and the desire to win. These qualities are also evident on the front lines, where Ukrainian soldiers prove daily that our nation is unbreakable. I thank the “Artan” unit for their dedication, courage, and professionalism, as well as all the defense forces that protect our state. I appreciate the coaches, families, and parents who raise strong and healthy youth,» emphasized Mayor Gennady Trukhanov.
The head of the GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, in his video address to the tournament participants, highlighted: «Our soldiers stand honorably and victoriously. Just like our athletes. “Artan” is the best unit that has already destroyed thousands of enemies and always performs tasks at the highest level».
«Artan» is an elite unit of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, which has been carrying out the most complex and unique operations since the first days of the full-scale invasion, including in Bakhmut, Chasiv Yar, the Kharkiv region, and in the Black Sea waters.
