Italians' Attitude Towards Ukrainians After the War Began: Maxim Prodan's Perspective

Maxim Prodan, a well-known Ukrainian boxer currently living near Milan, has provided insights into the evolving perceptions of Italians towards Ukrainians following the outbreak of the full-scale war instigated by Russia. In a conversation with a journalist from NV, he elaborated on how the attitudes of Italians towards Ukrainian refugees have shifted and why local residents' assistance has started to decline.

Prodan left Ukraine in 2013 to pursue a professional boxing career. Since then, he has achieved 24 victories, suffered two defeats, and had one fight that ended in a draw. Following the beginning of the large-scale war in Ukraine, Prodan, along with his family, has been actively aiding his compatriots by sending food supplies back to Ukraine. He noted that many Italians joined this noble cause, but over time, their support has begun to wane.

In his discussion, the boxer pointed out that many Ukrainians arrived in Europe after the war began, with Italy being no exception. "Of course. A lot of people came. In nice cars, in SUVs. Some took all their savings, gold, and money. Some even opened businesses here. Italians even said: 'Oh, Ukraine isn't such a poor country as we thought!' Because previously, they believed we were a poor country," Prodan recounted.

Prodan also commented on how Italians reacted to Ukrainians in the early days of the war. "When it all started, my mother personally packed food parcels. We loaded vans. Cars with Ukrainian plates would arrive — we all helped. Italians also came and brought food. They even bought wine, saying: 'Here, try some Italian.' Initially, they were very supportive," he emphasized.

However, according to Prodan, the situation changed over time. "But over time, as you know, humanitarian aid went astray, something disappeared. Gradually, they began to realize that this was turning into a business or that people were being deceived. And now, I think, they don't help as much as before," the boxer noted, indicating a decline in trust towards humanitarian assistance.

Prodan also addressed whether the number of Russians in Italy has increased. "No, I don't know how many were here before. I couldn't even tell the difference — whether you were Russian or Ukrainian. All Slavs. But now, yes, they don’t say they are from Russia. To avoid conflicts. I think those who are here don’t want this war either. Sanctions, account freezes — this is not beneficial for anyone. And it’s unpleasant for them. The reputation is such: if you are from Russia — immediately negative," he explained.

Currently, Maxim Prodan works as a driver at an Italian metal processing factory and is preparing for his next fight against Moldovan Ion Katarau, scheduled for April 11. In May, the boxer intends to participate in the semifinals for the Italian championship title against Valerio Mantovani. These plans highlight that despite the challenges, Prodan continues to strive for his dreams and goals in sports.

Previously, we reported on how Fury and Parker boldly addressed Usyk and Joshua, underscoring the ongoing tension in the world of boxing and sports competitions.