MEDALS ADD AIM FOR UKRAINIANS

Fencer says a good haul will boost morale in war-torn nation, help 'disability acceptance'

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PARIS - The Paris Paralympics are hugely significant for powerhouses Ukraine as great performances can help maimed war veterans come to terms with their new circumstances, said Tokyo Games silver medallist Artem Manko.

The 25-year-old fencer believes that previous impressive medal hauls have raised respect for disabled people in the country to the highest level it has ever been.

However, for those who have suffered life-changing injuries on the battlefield since Russia invaded in February 2022, adjusting mentally is a challenge in itself.

Hence Manko says it is imperative he and his teammates maintain Ukraine's pre-eminence when the Paralympics begin on Aug 28 they finished third in the medals table in Rio and sixth in Tokyo.

"It not only helps boost morale back home, it helps disability in society," he said.

"After the last Paralympics, Ukraine got so many medals we inspired the nation and I think we are now at the highest level of disability acceptance.