Shakhtar and Dynamo Kiev players plead for evacuation from Ukraine in emotional video
Brazilian players from Ukraine's top two football teams, Shakhtar Donetsk and Dynamo Kiev, have gathered in a hotel and released a video pleading for evacuation after Russia's invasion
Brazilian players from Shakhtar Donetsk and Dynamo Kiev have pleaded for evacuation from Ukraine in an emotional video.
The Eastern European country has been invaded by neighbouring Russia, prompting masses of the general public to search for an exit route.
The foreign contingent from their top two football teams are also looking for the same resolution after the league was suspended.
Shakhtar have a strong history of signing Brazil nationals to their team, with 12 currently on their books, while Dynamo have just forward Vitinho in their ranks.
They have all gathered in a hotel and released the clip in hope of receiving help to escape.
As per journalist Arthur Quezada, one of the players says: "The situation is one of despair. I ask you to disclose this video so that it reaches the government.
"Borders are closed, banks, there is no fuel, there will be a shortage of food, there is no money. We are gathered waiting for a plan to leave Ukraine."
The players are recorded with their families in attendance and one of their partners goes on to continue the plea.
Junior Moraes, who plays as a forward for Shakhtar, issued another desperate statement on his Instagram story.
He wrote: "All friends and family, the situation is serious and we are stuck in Kiev waiting for a solution to get out. We are inside a hotel. Pray for us."
Former Ajax winger David Neres is part of the group as he moved to Shakhtar just last month in the January transfer window.
Fellow Brazilians from Zorya Luhansk, who are fourth in the Ukrainian league, made their own video too.
The Champions League final, planned to be held at the Gazprom Arena in St Petersburg on May 28, now looks set to be relocated following the invasion.
And Ukraine international and Manchester City left-back has told Vladimir Putin to "die the most painful death" after he launched the military operation.