According to reports from Ukraine, a Russian overnight airstrike on July 25 destroyed the building of the Kherson Children and Youth Chess and Checkers Sports School, where generations of young players trained and local tournaments were held. The building reportedly burned to the ground, marking another attack on civilian infrastructure in the frontline city of Kherson, which has been subjected to constant shelling and drone strikes
Peter Heine Nielsen says, “Russia has been destroying several chess clubs in Ukraine, and tonight they struck the chess club in Kherson.” Gary Kasparov noted, “Typical Russian target, along with sleeping civilians. Looking forward to helping rebuild this chess club, after the new Ukrainian club in Sevastopol!”
ECU Secretary General Theodoros Tsorbatzoglou said on social media, “First weekend resting after at least 3 months, however the bombing of the chess & sport school in Kherson is another terrible action against society. Since for many, even running to be elected in a chess admin position, such news is not important, even to express their sorrow, we will be here to remind them”
FIDE Presidential Candidate Jan Buettner condemned the attack, “I am deeply saddened by the news that the chess club in Kherson was struck in yesterday’s attack.” Scroll down for the full statement.
Typical Russian target, along with sleeping civilians. Looking forward to helping rebuild this chess club, after the new Ukrainian club in Sevastopol! — Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) July 25, 2026
https://t.co/AvBggtaQ6N
The chess club in Kherson — Peter Heine Nielsen (@PHChess) July 25, 2026
was attacked by Russia 
this night.
I urge FIDE President @vishy64theking to condemn the attacks, and that FIDE will start supporting the victims under his leadership. pic.twitter.com/E5qKGD02ZN
Russia — Peter Heine Nielsen (@PHChess) July 25, 2026
has been destroying several chess clubs in Ukraine , and tonight they hit the club in Kherson.
Viltorija visited the club in 2021, and since helped provide with special tables.
1/4 pic.twitter.com/sn4gDzEd2f
Statement on the Attack on the Kherson Chess Club
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 25 July 2026
I am deeply saddened by the news that the chess club in Kherson was struck in yesterday’s attack.
Chess clubs are places where children and adults come together in peaceto learn, to think, to compete with respect, and to build friendships across generations. They are symbols of education, community, and hope. Seeing such a place damaged by war is heartbreaking.
No chess player, no child, and no civilian should have to fear for their safety simply because they gathered around a chessboard. Attacks that harm civilians and destroy places dedicated to learning, culture, and community deserve our unequivocal condemnation.
My thoughts are with everyone affected, especially the members of the Kherson chess community who have lost a place that meant so much to them. I hope that the club can one day be rebuilt and once again become a place where people meet in peace.
Chess teaches us that even the fiercest contests are governed by rules and respect. War reminds us of the terrible consequences when those principles are abandoned.
Jan Henric Buettner
Candidate for President of FIDE