The popularity of traditional Japanese sumo has seen a welcome rise in Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of the Eastern European country three years ago.With some 3,000 competitors in the full-contact sport, it often draws comparisons with the folk dance Hopak, the national dance of Ukraine originating in the 16th century as a dance performed by Cossacks celebrating victories when they returned home from war.Seeking a safe place to practice amid the ongoing conflict at home, junior national team members visited Japan in January and February to participate in sumo trainin…READ FULL ARTICLE
