IOC decision to allow Russian athletes prompts Ukrainian outcry
The International Olympic Committee has allowed some Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in the Olympic Games. This decision has sparked considerable emotions, especially in Ukraine. "How can you allow terrorists to participate in competitions promoting peace?" asked gold medallist Yaroslava Mahuchikh.
Despite the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, the International Olympic Committee allowed some athletes from the Russian Federation and Belarus to compete in the Olympic Games. They are competing under a neutral flag, although many countries believe they should not be allowed to compete. Ukrainians, including those competing in the Olympic Games in Paris, are particularly vocal about this.
Yaroslava Mahuchikh, the gold medallist in high jump, did not mince words in commenting on the International Olympic Committee's decision. She emphasized that Russian and Belarusian athletes in no way embody the ideals that underpin the Olympic Games.
We all know perfectly well where these athletes come from. And they haven’t spoken a single word against the war. They haven't even spoken about peace. That is why I think it is very bad. The Olympic Games are about peace, and all wars have always ceased during their continuation. But Russia did not cease, and during these Games, there were mass attacks on Ukrainian cities. How can you allow terrorists to participate in competitions promoting peace? - said the gold medallist.
Volodymyr Zelensky sharply criticises the inclusion of Russians in the Games
The Ukrainian president also expressed his outrage at the inclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Olympic competitions under a neutral flag. He called such a move "half-sanctions." - Look at this neutral flag. What is there? Let it have bloodstains, and then allow them to compete, because that is all they deserve — said Zelensky.
He reminded that the war initiated by Russia has claimed the lives of 488 Ukrainian athletes and their coaches. Some died on the front lines, some in Russian missile attacks. - If we are to impose sanctions, then let’s impose them. If these are half-sanctions, then let's not indulge in populism — he concluded.
