Italy slams decision to allow Russia's flag at 2026 Paralympics
Illustrative photo: Italy reacts to the decision to reinstate the Russian flag at the Paralympics (Getty Images)
Russia and Belarus continue to ignore the Olympic truce, raising questions as they are allowed to compete under their own flags, according to Italy’s Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi and Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
Betrayal of Olympic principles
Abodi reminded that four years ago, Russia’s invasion began between the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Beijing, violating the formal truce agreement binding on all nations.
He noted that the situation is repeating now: while the 2026 Olympics take place, the Russian army continues to destroy Ukraine, despite 165 UN member states supporting a truce resolution during the Games.
Criticism of the Paralympic Committee’s decision
The Italian minister expressed outrage at the International Paralympic Committee’s move to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete under their countries’ flags, with the anthems and uniforms. The decision came just hours before the re-election of the organization’s president.
"This raises questions about how this could happen and provokes outrage and concern… Everyone wants to protect athletes and let them compete, but at the same time, respect for Ukraine must be ensured," Abodi stressed.
Ultimatum to the aggressor
The minister emphasized that the autonomy of sports organizations cannot justify ignoring war crimes.
"Want a flag? Make the weapons fall silent. This is a question of civilization, especially in sports," Abodi concluded.
Reaction from Sybiha
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister thanked the Italian official for his voice of truth and common sense.
He reminded that restrictions on Russia and Belarus were imposed in response to aggression against Ukraine.
"Nothing has changed since then. The aggression, atrocities, and terror continue. What are the grounds for easing restrictions? There are none," he added.
Sybiha called on all countries to boycott the Paralympic opening ceremony "if the immoral decision on allowing Russian and Belarusian emblems is not reversed."
Russia’s flag at the Paralympics
Last September, the International Paralympic Committee decided to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags and anthems.
Recently, IPC President Andrew Parsons stated that the decision is final and cannot be overturned by the organization’s leadership.
