The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha, together with the Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine Matvii Bidnyi, expresses its outrage over the statements made by International Olympic Committee Vice President Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. regarding the possible return of Russia to the international sports community.

Such statements are not only a disregard for Ukraine, but also for the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter. We emphasize that adherence to the principles of peace, justice, and respect for international law is mandatory for a leader of the Olympic movement.

Let us remind that the sanctions and isolation of Russia from international sporting events are a consequence of its aggression against Ukraine, which has resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians, including more than 500 Ukrainian athletes. While Russia continues its aggression, proposals to reinstate its athletes in international competitions are absolutely unacceptable.

We call on the IOC and its members to uphold Olympic values and prevent the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to international competitions as long as the aggression against Ukraine continues.

Here is the text of the statement: https://cutt.ly/leOiI61y