Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has expressed strong opposition to the participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus in the Paralympics under the flags of their respective nations. He emphasized that it is unacceptable for Latvia to allow representatives of aggressor countries to compete while the brutal invasion of Ukraine continues. This perspective highlights Latvia's commitment to solidarity with Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.

Rinkēvičs also pointed out concerns regarding the quota system that prevents Latvian athletes from participating in the games, stating that such decisions are unfair to the country's representatives. He indicated that the choice to participate or not ultimately lies with the athletes themselves, acknowledging the point that if their Ukrainian counterparts are competing, it may encourage Latvian athletes to show support and achieve good results. This balance between national sentiments and personal freedom to compete illustrates the complex implications of international sports events in times of conflict.

Further criticism of the decision allowing athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete under their national flags has been echoed by Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Braže, who described it as entirely inappropriate given the current geopolitical climate. The situation reflects a broader tension within international sports governing bodies as they navigate the inclusion of athletes from countries involved in ongoing military conflicts, raising questions about nationalism, sportsmanship, and ethical responsibility in competitive events.