In a statement responding to the IOC’s request, the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine expressed its “categorical protest and deep disappointment at such a decision of the IOC, which contradicts the fundamental principles of justice, responsibility and Olympic values.”
He added: “This decision was made at a time when Belarus continues to support the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine and remains complicit in the war. The territory of Belarus is used for launching missiles and drone attacks against Ukrainian cities, as well as for military logistics and support for the Russian army.
“There have been no changes in the military and humanitarian context that could serve as a basis for the return of Belarusian representatives to international sports under national symbols.”
Vadym Gutzeit, president of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine, added: “The IOC’s decision is a dangerous precedent for the entire international sports movement.
“Today, the world has received a signal that a country that supports military aggression and is complicit in the war against Ukraine can return to the international arena without being held accountable for its actions.
“We are convinced that sport must unite the world around peace, respect and human dignity, and not become a platform to legitimize regimes that support war and terrorism.”
IOC President Kirsty Coventry suggested in February, external that Russia could compete in the Los Angeles Games in two years.
But the IOC has decided that doping problems mean it is not prepared to lift the suspension imposed on the country.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) recently announced that more than 300 sanctions have been imposed on Russian athletes following the seizure of data from the Moscow laboratory in 2019.
“Although the ROC (Russian Olympic Committee) has had constructive exchanges with the IOC regarding his suspension, he remains suspended while the IOC legal affairs commission continues to review the matter,” the IOC said.
“The IOC EC (executive committee) also noted with concern recent information that has led the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to investigate the Russian anti-doping system.
“Therefore, the IOC Board would like to gain a better understanding of this situation.”
In September, the International Paralympic Committee lifted its ban on athletes from Belarus and Russia competing at the Paralympic Winter Games earlier this year, while World Aquatics also announced that athletes from the two countries can compete under their countries’ flags.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested in February that world soccer’s governing body would consider lifting the ban imposed on Russia, a move called “irresponsible” and “childish” by Ukraine’s sports minister Matvii Bidnyi.