Tue Sep 10 16:58:00 UTC 2024: ## Former Ukrainian Goalkeeper Denys Shelikhov Defects to Belarus, Sparking Controversy
**Mozyr, Belarus** – Former Ukrainian national team goalkeeper Denys Shelikhov has joined Belarusian club Slavia Mozyr, raising eyebrows and igniting controversy. The 35-year-old reportedly prepared for his departure from Ukraine for months, even practicing swimming with fins to cross the Tisza River.
Shelikhov, who last played for Ukrainian club Victoria, refused to comment on the details of his departure, saying, “Who are you – a prosecutor? Ask the border service. You’re nobody to ask me such questions!”
The move comes after Slavia Mozyr officially announced Shelikhov’s arrival. The goalkeeper explained his decision by stating that he had a prior working relationship with the club’s coaches from his time at Luch Minsk. “They invited me here, offering to work together, and I gladly agreed,” Shelikhov told the club’s press service.
Shelikhov’s career spans several Ukrainian and Belarusian clubs, including Dnipro, Volyn, Luch, Islach, Mykolaiv, VPK-Agro, Metalist 1925, and LNZ. His move to Belarus has been met with skepticism and criticism, with many viewing it as a betrayal of Ukraine during the ongoing war with Russia.
The situation has further fueled tensions between Ukraine and Belarus, a close ally of Russia. Belarusian authorities have been accused of facilitating the passage of Russian troops into Ukraine and providing support to the invasion.
Shelikhov’s move highlights the complex and divisive nature of the conflict, extending beyond the battlefield to impact personal lives and loyalties.
First Piper 