Russians provoked Ukrainian athletes at Paralympics
Illustrative photo (getty images)
Russian athletes have been provoking Ukrainian competitors with rude behavior at the Paralympics in Paris, according to the president of the National Committee of Disabled Sports of Ukraine, Valerii Sushkevich.
"The first option is rude provocations, where they walk next to our athletes and make derogatory comments about Ukrainians. I told the President of the International Paralympic Committee that they are pushing their luck and might end up facing a reprimand if this continues," Sushkevich explained.
"The other type of provocation is more overt, such as insincerely saying hello in a patronizing manner. Both types are reprehensible and elicit a strong reaction from our athletes. The key here is not to fall for the provocation, as it could lead to the disqualification of the Ukrainian athlete," he added.
The Summer Paralympic Games 2024 in Paris began on August 28.
Ukrainian swimmer Anton Kol brought the first medal to Ukraine, winning silver in the 100-meter backstroke in the S1 class.
Later that same day, Ukrainian swimmers secured three more medals.
Currently, Ukraine has won a total of 15 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics:
Gold: 1
Silver: 8
Bronze: 6
