Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski has conveyed in a call to the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach, his uneasiness about the possible participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in Asian competitions.
«Any idea that implies that Russian representatives will return to international competitions is like allowing those guilty of terror to tell their society that the world supposedly tolerates terror,» Zelensky said in a speech, the Ukrainian Presidency reported.
In this regard, he has branded this possibility as a «sporting indulgence», since those who «represent war» could participate on «equal terms» with other countries. «The principles of the Olympic movement definitely do not contemplate collusion with a terrorist state,» he added.
«I don’t want to clarify whether there is any motive behind such ideas about Russia’s return. But no one will turn a blind eye to any attempt to reduce international pressure on the war,» the Ukrainian leader said.
During the call, Zelensky told Bach that at least 184 Ukrainian athletes have died «as a result of Russia’s actions,» so «you cannot try to be neutral when you destroy the foundations of a peaceful life and ignore universal human values.»
The IOC issued a statement last week saying it would «explore» the proposal following a motion by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), provided those athletes «fully respect the Olympic Charter and sanctions.»
These include banning the flag, anthem, colors or any other identification of Russia and Belarus at sporting events. The decision will be discussed at the IOC’s upcoming consultation with committees, athletes’ representatives and international federations.
