Dynamo Kyiv protests Russian flag at Lublin stadium during Europa League tie

Dynamo Kyiv issued an open letter to UEFA demanding an investigation after a Russian flag was displayed by PAOK supporters at Lublin’s stadium during the first leg of their Europa League second‑qualifying match on 23 July. The Ukrainian club cited the flag as a provocative act amid Russia’s war on Ukraine and asked UEFA’s disciplinary bodies to act.

Polish authorities responded to the incident, employing crowd‑control gas to disperse fans displaying the flag. Ukrainian fans and officials reacted strongly on social media, condemning the symbolism. PAOK, preparing for the return leg in Thessaloniki, also dealt with squad and transfer matters ahead of the decisive match.

The controversy has drawn attention from UEFA, the clubs involved, and national football federations, highlighting the intersection of sport and geopolitical tensions.