Vitalij Mandzyn was part of the team that finished eighth in Saturday's men's relay. In the World Championship, Julija Dzjyma has achieved Ukraine's best placement so far, a fifth place in the women's distance race.
But the results are far from the most important thing for Mandzyn, Dzjyma, and the other Ukrainians.
We want to show everyone in the world that we are alive, strong, and united, says Mandzyn.
The Ukrainian biathletes' mission is also about giving their home supporters something more normal to hold on to and follow in the World Cup and in the World Championship.
I hope they are satisfied. What we do is not perfect, but we do our best, says Mandzyn.
IBU contributes with millions
The International Biathlon Union, IBU, decided just a few weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 to support the biathlon elite so that they could continue to train and compete.
We allocate annually 250,000 euros (approximately 2.8 million kronor) to support the Ukrainians so that they cannot be at home and train, says IBU President Olle Dahlin.
It is highly appreciated and they can focus in a good way. You can also see that they are performing well in competitions.
Several European countries are providing training opportunities for the Ukrainians, including Idre.
Dahlin tells that at the beginning of the war, biathletes and many leaders were called up to the army.
But then the political leadership realized that it was better for biathletes to be out competing and showing that they could achieve successes despite the Russians trying to destroy them, he says.
Important to avoid meeting Russians
Vitalij Mandzyn says he wants to thank everyone who supports them, IBU, and the entire biathlon family.
It is important to get support and for everyone to understand that it is not easy for us, but that we are trying in the fight against this monster.
He is also very grateful that IBU stands firm in not allowing Russians and Belarusians to participate in international competitions until the war is over.
It is important for us. I cannot imagine having to compete against them, says Mandzyn.
