Terroristic Threats Create Unprecedented Precautions in Sochi

By Taylor Bosley
Staff Writer

On Feb. 3 athletes from around the world came together in Sochi, Russia to take part in the 2014 Winter Olympics. Unlike past years, this year’s games have been overshadowed with rising concern over threats of terroristic acts, causing many athletes to question having their family attend and in some cases, even themselves.  

Phoenix Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith told CBS News that bringing his family to Sochi is “not worth it” when Smith will be in constant worry about their well-being.  Although Smith is upset about these circumstances he simply said “that’s just the way it is.”

Smith also told CBS news that these worries about security are frustrating.

“When there's that extra baggage of security concerns and other things like that, I think it's obviously frustrating for all athletes,” Smith said, adding that it is troublesome for fans who wish to go support athletes at the Olympics.

Russian President Vladimir Putin feels the best approach to these threats is to show no weakness, reported ABC News.

“If we allow ourselves to be weak, feel weak, let our fear to be seen, by doing that we’ll assist those terrorists in achieving their goals,” Putin said.

President Putin also noted that Russia's government will take “efficient” measures in protecting all who attend the Olympics.

As more terrorist threats surface, athletes, fans and government officials alike will be taking more precautions to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance at the games.