Many know the Winter Olympics began just a few days ago in Sochi, Russia, but security is still a controversial issue.
Photo By: RIA Novosti archive
The United States has a backup plan if anything were to happen. United States has FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) agents in Sochi. The agents will work with their Russian counterparts to keep everything on track.
Senior TJ Lochte believes everything will be okay.
“Threats usually happen every time the Olympics come around,” said Lochte. “But I believe this Winter Olympics in particular is one of the worst… the United States and Russia will be able to stay connected as the Olympics progress.”
The United States being proactive by moving warships into the Black Sea. If e a terrorist threat or an attack would occur, the warships will launch helicopters to Sochi. If backup is needed, C-17 transport aircraft will be on standby in Germany.
Photo By: Creative Commons Attributions
Senior Bayley Gallegos positive about the safety of the participants attending the events.
“I would feel really nervous for them, but I feel that you would be able to trust the security that is set forth for the Olympic games,” said Gallegos.
American athletes were also warned as to what could possibly occur during their time there. Athletes, coaches, and staff were told not to wear their red, white and blue uniforms outside the stadiums. Officials will keep watch as well.
Math teacher Maureen Honeychuck was nervous about the security threats that have been going on.
“I imagine there’s always a lot of security at any Olympic games,” said Honeychuck. “If I were a participant or somebody who got a ticket, I would probably feel a little concerned.”
10,000 to 15,000 Americans are expected to attend this years Winter Olympics.
President of Russia Vladimir Putin stated that he will step up security and pledged that all tourists and spectators for this event will be safe. He also stated that nearly 40,000 Russian authorities and other forces will be guarding all events and venues.
Photo By: Kremlin.
“This event in particular is one to be concerned about just because terrorist events just happened not too long ago in Southern Russia,” said Honeychuck.
Overall, officials say the Winter Olympics will be a big success and an event to remember for a lifetime.
