Latvian officials have expressed their condemnation of the disqualification of Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych from the Winter Olympics, citing it as a violation of Olympic spirit and principles of respect and solidarity. The criticism was echoed by various figures, including Latvia's President Edgar Rinkēvičs and Foreign Minister Baiba Braže, who emphasized that honoring the memory of fallen athletes should not be politicized. They argued that such actions reflect humanity rather than political propaganda.

E. Silina, a prominent figure, noted on social media that the disqualification does not align with the Olympic ideals of respect and human compassion. The Latvian minister's comments highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict, asserting that Russia's actions have led to the deaths of innocent Ukrainians and challenged the notion of neutrality in this context. This highlights the intense political implications surrounding sporting events in a time of war, with such disqualifications setting precedents for how athletes express solidarity.

Additionally, Education and Science Minister Dace Melbardė sent an official letter to the International Olympic Committee, expressing discontent with the decision to disqualify Heraskevych for wearing a helmet with commemorative symbols. Melbardė's remarks indicate a broader call for Olympic authorities to reassess rules that conflict with humanitarian expressions, particularly in sensitive geopolitical climates. This situation underscores the complex interplay between sports and international relations, especially in scenarios where political sensitivities are heightened by ongoing conflict.