Can Online Poker Be an Outlet for Enjoyment in War-Torn Ukraine?

The situation in Ukraine is unfortunate and devastating. Innocent civilians are getting caught in the crossfire of political war. It is harrowing to think about the survivors, too, given that these people will be emotionally scarred from this inhumane experience. While it might not have immediate synergy, online poker sites offer an outlet of enjoyment in this particularly dark time in the country.

Do Ukrainian People Like Online Poker?

Online poker is technically illegal in Ukraine. Therefore, no site can operate in the country with Ukrainian legislation or approval. That, however, hasn’t stopped international and offshore sites from offering their sites to Ukrainian users. Some sites get blocked by internet service providers, but given the war on them, the government and police generally have more important things to do than chase internet poker sites and players.

Gambling’s Chequered Past in Ukraine

Ukraine and gambling have had a fascinating past. In May 2009, a fire broke out in the city of Dnipro within the confines of a gambling hall. Large sections of the society at the time blamed the negligence and gambling culture for the death of the nine casualties. The president at the time outlawed all forms of gambling in the subsequent month.

Bettors and gamblers who still wanted to play in Ukraine turned to poker to circumvent the gambling ban. This was allowed because poker was officially recognized as a sport in the country’s legislation, meaning that poker players were able to continue their business.

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The current president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has shown a favorable view on gambling and, as part of his rule (before the conflict), was making strides to help re-introduce all aspects of gambling to Ukraine, citing numerous economic benefits for the country by doing so. Gaming events have been held in Lviv to help continue this exercise and stimulate poker in the country, although he has since had to row back on this with it causing issues with the troops.

Distraction from the Conflict

Those living in Ukraine right now consistently fear being caught in the crossfire of the war. Given the circumstances, relaxing and unwinding will be challenging. As such, it can be not easy to focus on activities other than those related to survival mode. Taking some downtime to play poker sites for real is a relatively quick pastime with little startup effort. Therefore, it makes it easy for Ukrainian citizens to switch on their poker app and try to forget the conflict, even if momentarily.

One element of online poker sites that could offer some comforting distraction for Ukrainian poker players is the chat and social functions available. Communicating with other players might give them a social outlet they would have never had during wartime.

Income Source

Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, many jobs disappeared overnight. Suddenly, specific industries and companies were no longer operating in the country. As such, many Ukrainian people needed more employment and no money to heat their homes or put dinner on the table. While playing online poker cannot provide a stable income stream, if people have some savings to play and some pre-existing skills at poker, then the game could be used to help with everyday costs.

If a Ukrainian player wins a sizable prize, they may be able to fund a new life for themselves. A massive win could help them escape Ukraine and the devastation (if they want to) or purchase more security/defence aspects for their living accommodation, enhancing their quality of life.

Some famous poker players, like Antanas Guoga (also known as Tony G), have hosted charity poker tournaments, donating the proceeds to civilian relief efforts. Such work has not gone unnoticed, as these funds will help people rebuild their lives, whether that is in or outside of Ukraine.

Reminds People of Better Times

Online poker can remind Ukrainian players of the time before the war and help them look ahead to a future without conflict. Ukrainian citizens can use online poker to refresh their memories of visiting casinos or playing card games with friends. These quality memories and hopes can help give positivity to their troubled lives at present.

Unfortunate Poker Presence in War-Torn Ukraine

Unfortunately, there are a few points to mention, as online poker might not be an entirely positive exercise right now. Some reports state that Ukrainian soldiers are becoming addicted to the pastime and are spending their military compensation entirely on online poker. The bleak situation has made them forget about their other responsibilities.

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