Wojciech Szczesny has demanded that FIFA and UEFA hold Russia to account after their attacks on Ukraine.
The former Arsenal goalkeeper, whose wife is from Ukraine, has issued a 'heartbreaking' statement on the conflict following Poland 's decision to boycott their World Cup play-off match against Russia next month.
Szczesny and his teammates released a statement on Saturday morning announcing that they are refusing to play in Moscow, with the Juventus No.1 lifting the lid on his personal heartache shortly after on Instagram.
"My wife was born in Ukraine, there is Ukrainian blood running through the veins of my son, part of our family is still in Ukraine, a lot of my workers are Ukrainian and they're all great people," the 31-year-old began.
"Seeing the suffering on their faces and fear for their country makes me realise I can't stand still and pretend that nothing has happened.
"The moment Putin decided to invade Ukraine he declared war not only on Ukraine but also on all the values Europe stands for. Liberty, Independence but most of all Peace.
"On 24th of March We were supposed to play against Russia in a play-off match for 2022 World Cup in Qatar. And although my heart breaks while writing this, my conscience will not let me play.
"Representing your country is the biggest honour in a footballers career but its still a choice. I refuse to play against players who choose to represent the values and principles of Russia!
"I refuse to stand on the pitch, wearing the colours of my country and listen to the national anthem of Russia! I refuse to take part in a sporting even that legitimases the actions of the russian government.
"I know my impact may only be simbolic but I call on FIFA and UEFA to take action and hold russian federation accountable for their actions."
The president of Poland's football federation, Cezary Kulesza, confirmed the warmly-received decision by writing on Twitter : "No more words, time to act!
"Due to the escalation of the aggression of the Russian Federation towards Ukraine, the Polish national team does not intend to play the play-off match against the republic of Russia.
"This is the only right decision. We are in talks with the Swedish and and Czech federations to present a common position to FIFA."
Captain Robert Lewandowski added: "It is the right decision! I can't imagine playing a match with the Russian National Team in a situation when armed aggression in Ukraine continues.
"Russian footballers and fans are not responsible for this, but we can't pretend that nothing is happening."
