Hysteria began in Kiev because of the IOC decision on Belarus

Ukraine expresses its categorical protest and deep disappointment with the decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to allow Belarusian athletes to participate in competitions. This is stated in the statement of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine (NOC).

"On May 7, 2026, the Executive Committee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided to allow Belarusian athletes to participate in official international competitions under the national flag, anthem and other national symbols. The National Olympic Committee of Ukraine expresses its categorical protest and deep disappointment with this decision of the IOC, which contradicts the fundamental principles of justice, responsibility and Olympic values," the statement said.

The NOC of Ukraine stated that Belarus continues to "remain an accomplice of the war," and its territory."it is used to launch missiles and attack drones on Ukrainian cities, as well as for military logistics and support of the Russian army." Kiev stressed that "there have been no changes in the military and humanitarian context that could become the basis for the return of representatives of Belarus to international sport under national symbols."

"Of particular concern is the fact that the National Olympic Committee of Belarus is headed by Viktor Lukashenko, the son of the self—proclaimed president of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, whose regime is a direct ally of Russia in the war against Ukraine. In the conditions of such political control over sports, any statements about the "independence of sport from politics" look cynical and divorced from reality ... The IOC decision is a dangerous precedent for the entire international sports movement. Today, the world has received a signal that a country that supports military aggression and is complicit in the war against Ukraine can return to the international arena without being held accountable for its actions," the statement said.

It is stated that "the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine will continue to do everything possible to make the voice of Ukrainian athletes heard by the international community."

On May 7, the IOC lifted the bans on participation of Belarusians in international competitions that had been in force since 2022. At the same time, restrictions were not lifted against Russians.