The decision of the Executive Committee of the International Olympic Committee to allow Russians and Belarusians to compete in the 2024 Olympics in a neutral status is deemed irresponsible.
This information was reported by the Acting Minister of Youth and Sports, Matviy Bihdnyi.
"Just recently, the President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, announced that the relevant decision by the IOC would be made only in March of the next year," the statement said.
Bihdnyi informed that Ukraine has explained to international partners and the Olympic Committee that Russian athletes hold passports similar to those of the occupiers responsible for killing Ukrainians. This implies that they share responsibility for the deaths of Ukrainians.
"During the war, it is impossible to hide behind the white flag of 'neutrality.' Neutrality in times when the bloodiest war in Europe since World War II is ongoing, and one nation is trying to destroy another, means irresponsibility and silent approval of killers," added the Acting Minister.