Statement on the decision of the International Olympic Committee
08.05.2026
With reference to the decision of the International Olympic Committee, we strongly oppose the full reinstatement of athletes from Belarus to international sports competitions. As long as Minsk continues to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine, no concessions to the aggressors are acceptable. We stand in solidarity with Ukraine. Sport must not be used as a tool for normalising war and propaganda.
All decisions regarding the admission of athletes from Russia and Belarus to international sports competitions, including under their national symbols, require extensive discussion and consultation with the countries of our region, which are most severely affected by the consequences of the Russian aggression - also in the dimension of security and stability of holding international events.
In connection with the steps taken in recent times towards easing the restrictions on the admission of athletes from these countries to international events, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism has already requested placing the issue of the impact of reinstating those athletes to international competitions, under their national symbols - also in the context of the safety of organisers, participants and spectators - on the agenda of the EU Council for Education, Youth, Culture and Sport. The meeting will be held on 12 May 2026 in Brussels.