The article discusses the controversy surrounding Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevytsh and his efforts to honor Ukrainian victims of war at the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. In 2022, at the Beijing Olympics, he expressed a desperate plea of 'No war in Ukraine' after his performance. This was overshadowed by Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine, leading to significant casualties. Now, with the conflict still raging and the death toll rising, Heraskevytsh aims to pay tribute to 24 deceased Ukrainian athletes by wearing a helmet adorned with their images.

The article highlights the response of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to Heraskevytsh's intended tribute. Instead of supporting the athlete in his message of remembrance and solidarity, the IOC actively tried to prevent him from wearing the helmet. Despite his intentions being rooted in honoring the deceased, the IOC expelled him from the Olympics after attempts to persuade him not to proceed with his tribute failed.

This action has sparked outrage and accusations that the IOC is failing to acknowledge and respect the sacrifices made by athletes and innocents in the ongoing war. The article suggests that the IOC's decision not only disregards Heraskevytsh's mission to honor victims but also reflects a broader issue within the organization regarding political sensitivity and the treatment of athletes who wish to voice their concerns about global conflicts.