Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has spoken out following the disqualification of Vladyslav Heraskevych, a Ukrainian skeleton athlete, from the 2026 Olympic Games. Heraskevych was disqualified for wearing a helmet that paid tribute to Ukrainian soldiers killed in the ongoing war with Russia. Zelensky took to social media to voice his concerns, accusing the International Olympic Committee (IOC) of undermining efforts to promote peace and instead siding with aggressors.

This incident has sparked significant controversy, drawing attention to the broader implications of sports and politics in times of conflict. Zelensky emphasized that the Olympic movement should foster peace and not facilitate actions that could be perceived as supportive of the invaders. His comments reflect an ongoing struggle by Ukraine to raise international awareness and support in the wake of Russian aggression.

The response from the IOC and international sporting bodies will be crucial in determining the future of sports diplomacy amid global conflicts. There are mounting calls for reforms in how sports organizations handle political symbols and national pride, especially in the context of athletes representing countries at war. This situation highlights the intricate relationship between sports, national identity, and political representation on a global stage.