Ukraine's National Paralympic Committee, led by President Valerii Sushkevych, has firmly stated that it will not boycott the upcoming 2026 Paralympic Games, even though Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to compete under their national flags. Sushkevych expressed his outrage over this decision, emphasizing that allowing these athletes to participate represents an unjust leniency toward aggressors involved in ongoing conflict with Ukraine. He underscored the emotional toll that this decision takes on Ukrainian athletes and the greater implications for international sportsmanship and fair competition.

In his comments, Sushkevych articulated the determination of Ukraine’s athletes to compete at the Paralympics, asserting that boycotting the event would allow Russian President Vladimir Putin a symbolic victory over Ukrainian sports. He stressed that participation is crucial for maintaining the morale of Ukraine's Paralympians and ensuring their presence on the global stage in the face of adversity. The decision reflects a complex intersection of national pride, international relations, and the values of inclusivity in sports, where the actions of governing bodies can significantly impact athletes’ participation.