International climbing organizations cancel events in Russia in response to the country's invasion of Ukraine

Outline of Ukraine, based on a UN map of Ukraine and the Flag of Ukraine. [Image] Courtesy of the United Nations Cartographic Section; Alex Khristov, Wikimedia

In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the International Olympic Committee called for the cancellation of all sporting events that were scheduled in Russia and Belarus. In turn, the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) and the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) have cancelled the World Cup sport and ice climbing competitions slated to take place in March and April.

The New York Times reported, "Russia's invasion of Ukraine is the biggest in Europe since World War II. With the full-scale assault entering its second day on Friday, Ukrainians are coming to terms with the reality that the unthinkable has actually happened."

NPR recently a story with suggestions of ways people can help those struggling in Ukraine, which can be found here.

This past autumn, three Ukrainian climbers—Nikita Balabanov, Mikhail Fomin and Viacheslav Polezhaiko—completed the first ascent of the fabled Southeast Ridge of Annapurna III (7555m). Our thoughts are with them and all their fellow Ukrainians at this time.