Contrary to logic: Zelenskyy's office criticizes IOC decision on Russia
Illustrative photo: The International Olympic Committee's decision on Russia runs counter to the logic of sanctions pressure (Getty Images)
The restoration of the Russian Olympic Committee's rights by the International Olympic Committee is raising concerns amid growing international sanctions pressure on Russia, states Vladyslav Vlasyuk, the Ukrainian president's commissioner for sanctions policy.
He stressed that a significant number of Russian athletes directly represent sports clubs affiliated with Russia's Defense Ministry, the National Guard, and other security agencies, while some also hold military ranks. In addition, many Olympic champions and medalists have openly supported Russia's war against Ukraine.
"Among them are Angelina Melnikova, Yana Egorian, Vladislav Larin, Svetlana Dashanimaeva, and others. They have taken part in propaganda events, visited Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, and publicly endorsed Kremlin policies. Ukraine has already imposed sanctions on them for these actions," Vlasyuk said.
New sanctions against sports officials
Restrictions could soon be extended to sports officials as well. The EU's upcoming 21st sanctions package is expected to include Arkady Dvorkovich, president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), who is already under Ukrainian sanctions.
European sanctions are also being discussed against other officials who have supported Russia's aggression. Among them are Mikhail Degtyaryov, Russia's sports minister, Mikhail Mamiashvili, president of the Russian Wrestling Federation, and Stanislav Pozdnyakov, the former head of the Russian Olympic Committee.
"Against this backdrop, any steps toward restoring the full participation of Russian sports organizations in the international sports movement run counter to the logic of sanctions pressure," Vlasyuk emphasized.
He added that sport in Russia remains a tool of state propaganda and support for the war, and therefore international organizations should maintain, rather than weaken, the policy of isolating those who facilitate aggression.
Earlier, FIFA began preparations for formal discussions on the possible lifting of the ban on Russian teams competing in international tournaments.
The move followed a decision by the International Olympic Committee to lift the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee and notify international sports federations of the decision.
