Russia has spoken out about the timing of its return to the Olympics

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) may decide on the full return of Russian athletes to the Olympics quite quickly in the event of a peaceful settlement of the Ukrainian conflict. This opinion was expressed by State Duma deputy Svetlana Zhurova in a conversation with Lenta.ru.

“After the First and Second World Wars, despite the sanctions, Germany still returned to the Olympics. And the harm it caused was not comparable to what Russia was doing. We do not cause harm, but protect our territories,” the politician emphasized. “In our case, return can only happen if peace agreements are signed with Ukraine. Until there is an agreement, the IOC will not allow athletes under the Russian flag.”

The deputy also drew attention to the fact that the IOC is constantly delaying the decision on the participation of Russian athletes in the Olympics. In her opinion, this may be due to the committee’s hopes for a quick end to the conflict.

“The IOC is not making a final decision, saying it will announce it in March. They still admit that during this time the situation may change, that peace negotiations will begin. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is already talking about the alliance’s ambiguous attitude to what is happening, that they are not entirely happy with Ukraine’s successes. And the IOC also reads this rhetoric, which is why it is delaying the decision,” Zhurova believes.

Previously, international sports federations asked the IOC to allow neutral athletes from Russia who have qualified or have the opportunity to qualify for the Games to the 2024 Paris Olympics.