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Ukrainian Fencing Champion Hits Out After Russian Billionaire Takes Top Job

The article from Newsweek discusses the situation involving Alisher Usmanov, a Russian billionaire, and Ukrainian fencer Olha Kharlan. Usmanov, who has been sanctioned by the EU and the U.S. for his alleged ties to Vladimir Putin, has offered to pay a fine on behalf of Kharlan after she was disqualified from the World Fencing Championships for not shaking hands with her Russian opponent, Anna Smirnova. Kharlan instead offered a blade tap, which was seen as a gesture of respect but not in line with the handshake rule. This incident has sparked controversy, with Usmanov's offer seen by some as an attempt to improve his public image amidst his sanctions. The article also touches on the broader context of sports and politics, highlighting how international sports events are becoming arenas for geopolitical tensions, especially between Russia and Ukraine.

Read the Full Newsweek Article at:
[ https://www.newsweek.com/alisher-usmanov-russian-billionaire-olha-kharlan-ukraine-russia-1993785 ]