Ukraine plans to introduce new sanctions against Russian citizens in response to the restrictions related to Ukrainian athletes at the 2026 Olympics. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that this decision should be a signal to the world.
In light of the incidents surrounding Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, who was disqualified at the Olympics for attempting to use a “memory helmet,” Ukraine is preparing a sanctions package against Russian individuals who support the war. Zelensky noted that the documents are ready for implementation. He highlighted the importance of not remaining silent about supporting aggression, especially when Ukrainian athletes are deprived of the right to recall the victims of Russian aggression.
Heraskevych was removed from the first run of the skeleton competition because the IOC found his helmet depicting deceased athletes a violation of the Olympic Charter. After reviewing the case, the sports arbitration also rejected his lawsuit against the IOC. This has caused outrage in Ukraine, where such actions by the IOC are seen as a one-sided approach.
The National Olympic Committee of Ukraine tried to secure permission for Heraskevych to use the “memory helmet” and appealed to the IOC with a relevant request. Instead, the Committee only allowed the use of a black armband as a symbol of remembrance.
Zelensky called on the international community to be more decisive in supporting justice and emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to restore justice despite challenges. This decision on sanctions demonstrates Kyiv’s deep concern over Russia’s activity in the sports domain at the international level, which, in their opinion, poses a threat to the principles of equality and justice.
