International Paralympic Committee allows Russian athletes, sparking boycott threats and opposition

The International Paralympic Committee has decided to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their own flags at the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games, lifting a previous ban. In response, Ukraine has announced it will boycott the Paralympics opening ceremony over Russian participation, while Italy and Estonia have voiced opposition to allowing Russian athletes to compete. The decision has created international controversy regarding the participation of Russian athletes in global sporting events.