No place for war crimes: UWC condemns IOC’s move to reinstate Russia

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) is appalled by incoming International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry’s intention to discuss Russia’s return to the Olympic Games.

Three years ago, on Feb. 24, 2022, Russia launched its brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The atrocities in Bucha, Izium, and countless other Ukrainian towns shocked the world. Allowing Russia back into the global sporting arena not only betrays the principles of justice but sends a chilling message: war crimes and aggression can be excused for the sake of athletic integrity.

Russia has long weaponized culture and sports to spread its imperialist propaganda. Many Russian athletes are tied to the military, and their return to the Olympic Movement would hand the Kremlin a propaganda victory, amplifying its violent and oppressive ideology on a global stage.

Since the invasion began, nearly 500 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been killed by Russian forces. Missile strikes have obliterated hundreds of athletic facilities across Ukraine, leaving devastation in their wake.

The Olympic Games stand for peace, unity, and fair play – values that Russia’s actions blatantly defy. Reinstating Russia would tarnish the Games, turning them into a platform for whitewashing war crimes and genocide.

The UWC calls on the IOC and its member states to reject any move to reinstate Russia. We urge athletes, sports organizations, and advocates for justice to stand with Ukraine and amplify its voice.

The Olympics must remain a beacon of peace and human rights – not a stage for normalizing terror and destruction.