Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has defended the rights of skeleton athlete Vladislav Heraskevič to participate in Olympic competitions while wearing a helmet that features images of Ukrainian athletes who lost their lives due to the ongoing war. Heraskevič, who is the flag bearer for the Ukrainian delegation at the Winter Olympics, had intended to wear this helmet during training sessions in Cortina, showcasing the impact of Russia's military actions against Ukraine. His aim was to draw attention to the devastating effects of the conflict while representing his country on an international stage.

However, on Monday, the 27-year-old athlete announced via social media that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has prohibited him from wearing the helmet during training and competitions. The IOC has not yet publicly confirmed this decision, which has provoked a strong emotional response from Heraskevič, who emphasized that the ruling has deeply hurt him. He plans to file an official request with the IOC seeking permission to compete with the helmet, stressing the importance of highlighting the sacrifices made by his fellow countrymen in the face of ongoing conflict.

Zelensky expressed his gratitude to Heraskevič for using his platform to remind the world about the cost of Ukraine's struggle. The situation underscores the complexities of presenting national pride and the ongoing plight of athletes from Ukraine in the context of a war that has drawn global attention. It raises questions about the intersection of sports, politics, and the representation of national symbols in major international sports events.