News summary of Russia’s war in Ukraine for Monday, February 20th

The United States and more than 30 countries, including Canada and most of Europe, have backed a proposal to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing in international sports, according to joint declaration Published this Monday by the British government.

The countries called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to reverse its decision last month to find a path for athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate in the upcoming Games as “neutral athletes”.

“The situation in Ukraine has continued to deteriorate since the IOC banned Russian and Belarusian athletes last year – after their countries violated the Olympic truce – and there is no reason for the IOC to reverse this decision,” he added. summary British government announcement.

“There are serious doubts about the feasibility of Russian and Belarusian athletes competing impartially, given that they are directly funded and supported by their countries. Until a viable ‘neutrality’ model is worked out in detail, athletes should not be allowed to compete.” And Russian and Belarusian athletes will compete again.

“There are clear concerns about the strong ties and affiliations between Russian athletes and the Russian military,” the statement added, calling on the IOC to address the issues raised by all countries and reconsider its proposal.

The declaration was signed by the Sports and Culture Ministers of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland and Ireland. Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

This is what the United States said earlier: earlier this monthThe White House said it is not opposed to allowing athletes from Russia or Belarus to participate in the 2024 Summer Olympics and 2026 Winter Olympics, as long as it is “crystal clear” that they do not represent their home countries. Press Secretary Karen Jean-Pierre said.

“In cases where sports organizations and event organizers, such as the International Olympic Committee, decide to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate in support events, it must be made very clear that they do not represent the Russian or Belarusian countries.” Jean-Pierre declared, adding that the use of any official Russian or Belarusian flag, emblem, or anthem should be prohibited.