Ukraine's sports minister has criticized recent moves by the International Olympic Committee that suggest restrictions on Russian athletes could soon be eased, potentially allowing them to compete under their national flag in future Olympic Games. Currently, Russian and Belarusian athletes are only permitted to participate as neutral individuals without national symbols, but recent decisions by sports bodies and statements from the International Olympic Committee indicate a possible shift. Ukrainian officials argue that relaxing these restrictions would legitimize Russia's actions in Ukraine and undermine the impact of sports sanctions, which they view as a crucial negotiating tool. Despite the ongoing war and severe challenges at home, Ukraine has managed to send a team to the Milan Cortina Olympics, aiming to demonstrate resilience and national pride on the world stage.