Ukraine – What can we say about the war and invasion that is happening right now in Ukraine? Should we give our thoughts and feeling as motorcyclists and as Motorcycle Minds – what has it got to do with us?
Well yes, we should give our thoughts, even though we haven’t commented on other wars and disasters, man made or not, this time it appears to be different and it is not because of social media 24 hour news repeats showing the death and destruction.
As motorcycling commentators, we didn’t believe it to be our remit to write about the conflicts in the Middle East nor any part of the world where there is war and violence. It is not just because this conflict in Ukraine is happening in Europe but because of the culmination of corruption and greed that has taken over mainly due to Russian interference in democracy throughout the world.
Our own country is possibly the most obvious example of this infiltration into our society. We could list the obvious – Oligarchs, interference in elections and referenda, buying politicians and so it goes on. Ukraine is the result of everybody turning a blind eye to Putin and his regime. Now an independent sovereign state is being invaded because of a crazed autocrat’s need to have more power and the weakness of others to stop him.
The Organisations
Sporting organisations from football to the winter para-olympics have come out in condemnation.
Motor sport has cancelled events in Russia and Ukraine, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) which includes regulated motor sport has said, “We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine.” with certain bans on certain Russian/Belarusian participation and the freezing of grants.
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) met with the FIA, “regarding the decisions they would have to make in the coming days in relation to Russia’s involvement in this conflict”.
Today (5th March 2022) they made that decision, “The Board of Directors (FIM) has unanimously condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine.” They have basically suspended any interaction externally and internally with the Motorcycle Federation of Russia (MFR) and the Belarusian Federation of Motorcycle Sport (BFMS) and unanimously recommended to all Affiliated Members and Continental Unions to apply these measures at the national and continental levels.
FIM President, Jorge Viegas, said, “We stand in sympathy and solidarity with all those suffering, as a result of the Russian invasion in Ukraine, and remain in close contact with our affiliate member in Ukraine (FMU). I would like to thank the FIM Board of Directors members in deciding these measures in the interests of sport and peace. The FIM, together with its promoters and organisers, already acted on this matter and cancelled the FIM competitions scheduled in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. The decisions announced today are in line with the recommendations and statements made by the International Olympic Committee, adapted to suit our sport. The FIM family is watching the developments in Ukraine with great sadness and hope for a prompt and peaceful resolution.”
FIVA – Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens who look after the interests of owners and supporters of historic vehicles, motorcycles, trucks, etc have issued a comprehensive statement from their president with solidarity with Ukraine.
FIVA’s president Tiddo Bresters says, “Ukraine’s very existence as a democratic state is threatened by an aggression unprecedented in Europe since 1945. No one can remain indifferent to the enormous humanitarian tragedy that is now afflicting this great and proud country and its brave citizens. But please note that this is not a war between the people of the two countries. The invasion of Ukraine and the enormous disaster it brings along is the result of a completely unjustified autocratic decision.”
Even the International Cat Federation (FIFe – Fédération Internationale Féline) has banned Russian cats from competitions, its executive board saying, “that it was “shocked and horrified” that Russian forces had invaded Ukraine and “started a war.” – “The Board of FIFe feels it cannot just witness these atrocities and do nothing.”
Business Big and Small
According to Reuters Harley-Davidson Inc has said that the company had, “suspended its business and shipments of its bikes to Russia following that country’s invasion of Ukraine last week.”
It not just big business, one smaller business we know of – which supplies handmade quality parts from small manufacturers in Russia, Ukraine and Poland is posting concerns regarding one of their employees trying to move to safety in Ukraine and the help that is being offered by individual riders.
And there it is the effect on people just getting on with their lives and personal struggles whilst we literally sit here powerless to help.
However whilst we can put up the colours of Ukraine in moral support we can also offer help as people have, with donations, so what are riders doing. Below is an example of those trying to make a difference.
Rider “Organisations”!
The Trans Euro Trail (TET) is a community interest company which through a team of enthusiastic volunteers called Linesmen, the TET relies on its community to find and manage the evolving network of tracks that criss-cross thirty-three countries for the use of adventurer/adventurous riders.
Those tracks comprise over 51,000km of legal unpaved road (or as much as possible!), the TET is an epic motorcycle journey through some of Europe’s most remote, diverse and inspirational landscapes, part of which I (Motorcycle Minds – Trevor Baird) I have used in Portugal.
One of those countries is Ukraine and surrounding European countries, a message five days ago from the Trans Euro Trail (TET) on its social network sites, a trail I have used in Portugal, is regarding those impacted by events taking place in Ukraine.
“The TET is a project that celebrates friendship, freedom, community and sharing. It is one that delights in the discovery and exploration of one another’s cultures – both their similarities and their differences. With this background and belief, the TET team offers its full support to riders, families and wider communities that are now in fear of their or their loved ones’ lives, or displaced from hearth and home.”
“Whatever the future days and weeks hold, with forecasts of at least 4 million people displaced, the need for shelter, warmth, food, water and health provision will continue.”
“This community has shown its heart in the past. We’ve rushed to help the fallen and broken across Europe. It’s showing its heart again right now with offers of help and shelter on this group (TETShelter).”
“All of us feel helpless. All of us want to do something.”
“Many will be able to offer space or time but not all of us have the skills or resources to help so directly. But most of us can dip into our pockets and all can show that the community of humankind is better than this.”
The end of the TET message suggests what you can do to help! We wait to see if other rider organisation react, although we are aware that some are and their individual riders are working in the background to get aid and help out!
Riders
One rider and the affects of the war in Ukraine who sticks out and that is Ukrainian rider, born in Kyiv, Anna Grechishkina who has been documenting her travels around the world on her motorcycle KTM Adventure 1190, since 2013.
From just finishing her ride around Norway to the start of a new adventure in Africa she finds her country being bombed.
Her message at the start of the invasion was, “The war started against my country, Ukraine.”
“Against common sense, against humanity, against values of integrity and peace.”
Ten days into this war Anna continues on her FaceBook page, “Probably you understand that there has not been anything else on my mind than following the news, keeping in touch with my family and friends.“
“Therefore, there will be not much related to the pure travelling until the situation stabilizes. I hope you understand, and if you still want to follow me and show your support to my country, you’re welcome to do so and I will definitely appreciate. If you prefer to unfollow, well this is fine too.“
“In the meantime I appreciate the opportunities to talk about the war in my country and the courage of my people, express my feelings and thoughts.”
“I think it is very important to talk and to raise awareness in the circles around you. I believe that what is happening now is far beyond the boundaries of just one country or a group of countries. The consequences can affect the whole world and we should stand together to stop this horror. Every single voice matters and can make a difference.“
“May there be peace.”
Motorcycle Minds Comment
There is not much left to write – but as riders or more importantly as human beings, once again watching others suffering for the reasons we have set out here, we must shout out that we in the West – must come to the help of Ukraine and tell our politicians to pull their fingers out to stop this madness!
Information – Donations
Anna Grechishkina – On Facebook – How you can help Ukraine
TET – On Facebook Help and shelter on this group (TETShelter).
UNHCR The UN Refugee Agency – Ukraine Emergency
International Rescue Committee – www.rescue.org
International Committee of the Red Cross – www.icrc.org/en/donate
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF): Donations
In your area – there are numerous other local agencies – local collections – seeking donations.
“The fight can take different forms, and this diversity is what many Ukrainians are involved in, everyone doing their tiny or not so tiny bit they can be most efficient in.”
“As for me, I decided that my way would be to suspend my journey, return to Ukraine and find my niche in fighting for our love, for our Ukraine, being physically there and learning what I can, adding it to some skills I already can apply.”
“I know that I am a person who would avoid a conflict situation by any means as long as it doesn’t violate my values such as freedom and justice.”
“But when it does and when I know of the innocent people whose lives are taken just because the aggressor came up with some justifying reasons for that, I believe I will not think twice.”
“Because I am a lover, and I am a fighter. And I will fight for what I love.”
Northern Ireland – Moto Trail NI
Moto Trail NI Club was, “Formed to secure the World Famous ‘Lead Mines’ as a permanent practice facility for the sport of trials. The area, now called Whitespots Trials Park, has almost 100 years documented history of motorcycle use and some would say is the birth place of the sport of trials.”
The club held a fund raising event in April in support of Ukrainians in their fight against Russian invasion.
The Bikes We Ride – “Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced its decision today to donate 700,000 U.S. dollars toward humanitarian aid for Ukraine and its surrounding regions.”
“This donation will be made through Japan Platform, a non-profit organization, and the funds will be used explicitly for delivering humanitarian aid to those in need.”
“Yamaha Motor expresses its deepest sympathies to all the victims affected by this crisis and hopes for a return to peace as quickly as possible.”
Original Source –Yamaha Global
Arnold Schwarzenegger – A message to the Russian people – strong and wise words from “Arnie”!
Ireland – Rebel Riders MCC poster for their aid run, all proceeds to the Irish Red Cross for their Ukrainian appeal!
Portugal – Grupo Acção Motociclista – Bikers Against War and World peace In A National Manifestation
March 20th, Sunday at 3pm LET’S ASK FOR PEACE.
GAM- Motorcycle Action Group will host a national demonstration of “BIKERS AGAINST WAR”.
The demonstration/concentration of motorcyclists will take place next Sunday, March 20th, at 15:00 in Porto (Av. dos Alliados), in Coimbra (Republic Square) in Lisbon (Rossio), in Faro (Algarve Stadium), in Funchal (to be set) and in Ponta Delicate in the City Gates.
All motorcyclists who are going to participate in the demonstration in solidarity with the people suffering the misfortunes and horrors of the war in Ukraine, Syria, Iraq and Yemen are asked to take WHITE FLAGS with them on their motorcycles.
The general population that wants to join this journey of fighting for peace is most welcome.
GAM was created exclusively to defend the rights and interests of citizens as motorcyclists and has guided its existence respecting this but, in this troubled, insecure and uncertain moment in Europe, with the damnable Russian invasion of Ukraine, other values rise up and lead us to this demonstration!
WE ASK FOR PEACE.
Details On Face Book –Grupo Acção Motociclista – Bikers Against War and World peace In A National Manifestation
FIA Sport and Mobility Member Clubs Join Forces to Support Ukraine
“In reaction to the humanitarian and refugee crisis caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, several FIA Member Organisations in both Sport and Mobility have mobilised to provide support and assistance to the Ukrainian people in these difficult times.”
“More information about FIA Clubs’ initiatives to support Ukraine will soon be published on a dedicated page on fia.com that will be updated regularly.”
Original Source – Full Article –FIA Sport and Mobility Member Clubs Join Forces to Support Ukraine
United Kingdom – Bennetts Bike Social
“Ducati, BMW, Honda, and Polaris are the latest motorcycle manufacturers to have announced an immediate suspension to business interests in Russia as a direct result of the nation’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.
Russia, under the orders of President Vladimir Putin, declared war on Ukraine on 25th February, launching an aggressive and heavy-handed attack on several key locations close to its border.
In just two weeks the conflict has claimed more than 2,000 civilian casualties – according to official sources – while heavy shelling continues to take place in the towns of Mariupol and the capital city Kyiv.
While nations allied to Ukraine resisting calls to join the effort on the ground, the pressure from the west is instead being applied economically with widespread sanctions hitting Russia and a number of high-profile companies and consumer brands withdrawing from the nation.”
Original Source – Full Article – Bennetts Bike Social
Motorcycle Industry Boycotts Russia
British Motorcyclists Federation
Motorcycle manufacturers and sporting bodies are lining up to join a boycott of Russian business in the wake of the country’s invasion of Ukraine on 25th February.
Harley-Davidson was first, announcing it was pulling out on 1st March. It was swiftly followed by Polaris, owner of Indian which also decided to stop selling its big V-twins in Russia.
Now Honda has joined in, having suspended shipments of bikes and cars. However, the company stressed that this was due to economic factors, rather than any moral imperative.
“The Japanese house made this decision due to the challenges around distribution and finances,” said Honda spokesperson Misako Saka. “It will resume shipments once the situation returns to normal.”
By contrast, MV Agusta CEO Timur Sardarov, who is himself Russian, has publicly criticised the Russian invasion in an open letter distributed via MV. “My family is shocked, all the people that I know are shocked, angry and feel betrayed,” he wrote. “Russians are a very proud nation and in our history no one has ever betrayed us more than this regime led by Putin.”
Whatever the motive, these announcements from some big names in motorcycling – plus household names such as BP and Jaguar Land Rover, which have also stopped doing business in Russia – will put pressure on those who have not yet announced a ban.
As of 11th March, there was no word from Triumph, whose Moscow office is still listed on its website.
Sporting bodies have stepped up, with the FIM implementing an immediate ban on all Russian and Belarusian riders. It happened so quickly that MX GP rider Vsevolod Brylyakov was thrown out of the second round MX GP in Lombardia. Britain’s ACU has also announced an immediate ban.
“The reliance on Russian oil and gas outweighs all else in the west, until we stop depending on hydrocarbon imports from dodgy parts of the world, we will always be in thrall to any tin pot regime with barrels of oil and nuclear weapons.” Commented BMF Chair, Jim Freeman.
Original Source –British Motorcyclists Federation
Read our comments to this article on the Motorcycle MindsFacebook Page
Europe – Energy transition and the future of motorcycling – Federation of European motorcyclists Associations (FEMA)
A small paragraph in this article, relating that motorcyclists as “fuel” users are affected or supporting the invasion by Russia in the Ukraine because of the large amount of gas and oil coming from Russia.
“Recently, the Western world was shaken awake by the fact that a large amount of our gas and oil comes from Russia and that by buying this we financially support Mr. Putin to raise the army that invaded Ukraine.”
Original Source:Energy transition and the future of motorcycling Energy transition and the future of motorcycling
British Ambulance Technician to Kyiv
What has it got to do with us? Motorcyclists are people – people are motorcyclists – as British ambulance technician Leon Cribb has ridden his old police motorbike 1,500 miles to war torn Kyiv in two days to ferry vital medical supplies from his home the UK!
Original source:British Ambulance Technician -26- Rides Motorbike 1500 Miles Ferry Medical Supplies Kyiv
Anna Grechishkina – Proud to be a Ukrainian
You are right to state that there are many other wars we could mention and perhaps should have mentioned.
As we wrote “It is not just because this conflict in Ukraine is happening in Europe but because of the culmination of corruption and greed that has taken over mainly due to Russian interference in democracy throughout the world.” Of course it’s not only Russia. Our own country has been taken over by greed and corruption.
The difference is that Russia is a country which has immense power and can change our world dramatically.
This war is different – in this war we may all lose out (by that I mean humanity). That said, it’s not about who is right and wrong, but about the people of Ukraine who are suffering and who need our support.
The whole world should help Ukraine to send a message of unprecedented unity to Putin that his time is up.
Potitics is difficult for a non-native English speaker, too easy to write someting that can be misunderstood (but I want to give it a try). We have a lot of wars around the world. Some of them are fought with weapons, some with money. I wish that the world’s reaction to Jemen war (just as example) would be just as tough. Or other African countries, which just turned into military dictatorship. However, this war in the Ucraine has pushed violence to another level. Unacceptable. Putin cannot be overcome by UNO, NATO and most likely not by the Ucraine. People like him have to over come by his own people.