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Ukrainian Minister Calls Olympic Neutrality for Russia Premature

11/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Matviy Bidnyi, Ukrainian Minister of Youth and Sports, says it is premature to discuss Russian and Belarusian participation in the Winter Olympics.
Athletes from Russia and Belarus may compete only as neutrals, while teams remain banned.
Bidnyi reported 800 Ukrainian sports facilities damaged since the 2022 invasion.
He criticized the International Paralympic Committee's decision to lift the ban and urged ceasefire and support before reintegration, noting the Olympics offer resilience.

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Story summary

Matviy Bidnyi, Ukrainian Minister of Youth and Sports, says it is premature to discuss Russian and Belarusian participation in the Winter Olympics.
Athletes from Russia and Belarus may compete only as neutrals, while teams remain banned.
Bidnyi reported 800 Ukrainian sports facilities damaged since the 2022 invasion.
He criticized the International Paralympic Committee's decision to lift the ban and urged ceasefire and support before reintegration, noting the Olympics offer resilience.