Ukraine are determined to use their platform at Euro 2024 to ensure the world doesn't forget that their homeland remains under Russian invasion.
Having failed to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, their presence in Germany is being seen by the squad as the perfect chance to raise awareness of the horrors back home.
For Bournemouth defender Illya Zabarnyi, it is often hard to think about such things, but the 21-year-old says that war can serve as a motivation ahead of Ukraine's group stage opener against Romania in Munich.
"It's a great honour to represent Ukraine," said Zabarnyi, who played 42 times for the Cherries in all competitions last season and has already amassed 170 senior appearances for club and country at his tender age.
"You all know the times we are going through now, and I feel incredible responsibility for my actions. When you understand how difficult it is to be there, then it is difficult to say the right words."
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Despite those difficulties, the young centre-back is impressively clear and composed when he discusses the horror of war and its impact upon the squad, adding that it is impossible not to think about what could be happening back home.
Zabarnyi shared his immense pride in Ukraine (UEFA via Getty Images)"I just want to say thanks to anyone who comes and supports us, and everyone who lets us play, because it is important not only for football in Ukraine, but also for all of life," he continued.
"Every day our country wakes up to alarms and it's so difficult to think about that. Children, women, just civilian people, lots of people die every day and it has to stop.
"We have to thank the warriors who defend our country. They are incredible people with their bravery and I'm so grateful to them. It's very important for me to think about them.
"It's very difficult when you wake up, and you think what happened to your friends and to your near and dear at home. You can only wish them safety.
Ukraine kick off their campaign against Romania (UEFA via Getty Images)"Of course that can pressurise every one of us, but it adds a great motivation to come onto the pitch and do everything possible to win."
Despite those understandable distractions, Zabarnyi is confident the Ukraine squad can make it though the group stages and extend their stay in Germany.
"We don't have superstars, we just have a really good squad," he said. "The boys are all together, and I think in this moment we're a good team."
Everton's Vitaly Mykolenko is set to face a late fitness test for the match.
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