Story perspectives

Trump Administration Backs Russia’s Paralympic Return Amid Boycott

2/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has expressed support for Russia’s return to global sports after its ban.
Paulo Zampolli, representing President Donald Trump, endorsed Russia's Paralympics participation, saying, "I think sport is for all."
This stance contrasts with Ukraine and European leaders, who plan to boycott the Paralympics opening ceremony.
Italy opposes the International Paralympic Committee's decision, with FIFA and the International Olympic Committee expressing similar reintegration sentiments.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has expressed support for Russia’s return to global sports after its ban.
Paulo Zampolli, representing President Donald Trump, endorsed Russia's Paralympics participation, saying, "I think sport is for all."
This stance contrasts with Ukraine and European leaders, who plan to boycott the Paralympics opening ceremony.
Italy opposes the International Paralympic Committee's decision, with FIFA and the International Olympic Committee expressing similar reintegration sentiments.