Controversy Surrounds Russian Participation in Milano Cortina Paralympics

Allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in the upcoming Milano Cortina Paralympics under their national flags is stirring up considerable controversy. According to Ukraine's sports minister, this decision is not only outrageous but also signals implicit support for Russia's war narrative.

Despite a ban following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, both countries regained their Paralympic membership in 2025, leading to their participation in the Games. Ukrainian minister Matvii Bidnyi has publicly criticized the decision, describing it as providing a platform for war propaganda.

Ukrainian athletes and officials continue to express concerns over what they perceive as provocations against their nation, including the controversial inclusion of Russian athletes and the challenges surrounding the International Paralympic Committee's decisions.