I am deeply saddened by the news that the chess club in Kherson was struck in yesterday’s attack.
Chess clubs are places where children and adults come together in peace-to learn, to think, to compete with respect, and to build friendships across generations. They are symbols of education, community, and hope. Seeing such a place damaged by war is heartbreaking.
No chess player, no child, and no civilian should have to fear for their safety simply because they gathered around a chessboard. Attacks that harm civilians and destroy places dedicated to learning, culture, and community deserve our unequivocal condemnation.
My thoughts are with everyone affected, especially the members of the Kherson chess community who have lost a place that meant so much to them. I hope that the club can one day be rebuilt and once again become a place where people meet in peace.
Chess teaches us that even the fiercest contests are governed by rules and respect. War reminds us of the terrible consequences when those principles are abandoned.
Jan Henric Buettner
Candidate for President of FIDE
