Ukraine and Allies Boycott 2026 Paralympics Ceremonies Over Russian Flags

Russian outlets portray the decision to let Russian athletes compete under their national flag at the 2026 Paralympics as a long-overdue correction after earlier bans. They describe Ukraine’s planned boycott as a political stunt that harms athletes and goes against the spirit of Olympism. Russian voices argue that, despite boycotts, Russian participation in future Games, including the 2028 Olympics, is becoming inevitable.

• •The Russian Paralympic Committee says Ukrainian officials’ boycott is secondary to the main issue of Russian athletes being allowed to compete.
• •Maria Zakharova says Ukraine is trampling on the principles of Olympism by mixing sport and politics.
• •Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov says Russia will defend its athletes’ right to perform under the national flag at international competitions.
• •Russian commentators say Western countries are using the Paralympics to pressure Russia instead of keeping sport neutral.
• •Russian media cite foreign press reports claiming Russian participation under the national flag at the 2028 Olympic Games is now seen as inevitable.