After the 2022 Russian invasion, Mr. Grot wanted to expand access to the sport. In 2023, he teamed up with a local jujitsu program to have a new gym built in Kyiv where soldiers and veterans could practice together. It was financed in part by grants and donations, including from the U.S.-based charity Nova Ukraine.
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Nova Ukraine Chairman & CEO Statements on “Undesirable” Designation by the Russian Federation
WASHINGTON/PALO ALTO–In July, Russia declared the U.S.-based nonprofit Nova Ukraine an "undesirable” organization, effectively outlawing the organization's activities within Russia. The designation bans any cooperation or financial transactions with Nova Ukraine by Russian nationals or entities, and exposes affiliated individuals to severe criminal penalties and lengthy prison sentences. In response, Nova Ukraine Founder and Board Chairman Mikola (Nick) Bilogorskiy and CEO Ambassador Erin E. McKee issued the following statements: Bilogorskiy: “We see the “undesirable” designation as proof our work is effective.