Bidnyi, who succeeded Vadym Gutzeit last November, reflected on the importance of the Olympics for Ukraine. He described the fortnight-long event in Paris, which will be broadcast worldwide, as "a vital platform for Ukraine to showcase its determination and achievements."

Despite severe disruptions—ranging from athletes fleeing the country to the destruction of training facilities—Ukraine has assembled a team of 143 athletes for Paris. This comes after Russia's full-scale invasion began on 24 February 2022. Bidnyi stressed the need to remind the world of Ukraine’s existence and resilience: "We must remind the world that Ukraine exists, is fighting, and is capable of winning."

This year, the focus is not solely on medals, unlike the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 when Ukraine won 19 medals. Instead, the emphasis is on endurance and defiance. "Every Ukrainian athlete at the Olympic Games is a hero who is already a winner," Bidnyi noted, reflecting on the significant obstacles faced, including personal losses and the destruction of homes and training facilities.

Bidnyi also receives daily updates on casualties among Ukrainian athletes and coaches. "Each morning, I receive a text detailing the number of Ukrainian athletes and coaches killed by the Russians," he revealed. The current toll stands at 488, including numerous world and European champions who should have been competing in Paris.

Among the competitors is Ukrainian rower Anastasia Rybychok, who has faced both personal and professional hardships due to the war. Her training base in Kherson was bombed and flooded following the destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Station, compounded by frequent power outages affecting her training.

In response to the broader geopolitical context, Bidnyi expressed satisfaction with the International Olympic Committee’s decision to significantly limit the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in Paris. These competitors will participate under a neutral flag and will be barred from the opening ceremony. "Today, there will be a maximum of 15 people without a state, without a flag, and without an anthem," Bidnyi remarked, highlighting the reduced visibility of Russian athletes compared to the 330 who competed in Tokyo.

As the Olympics unfold, Bidnyi’s message is clear: Ukraine's presence at the Games is a testament to its resilience and determination. Despite the adversities faced, the country’s participation serves as a powerful symbol of hope and strength on the global stage.