Lithuanian PM to boycott Paralympics over participation of Russians and Belarusians

Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has said she will boycott the upcoming Milan-Cortina Paralympic Games in protest against the decision to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags.

As reported by Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT, on Wednesday 19 February, the Lithuanian Paralympic Committee strongly criticised the decision to permit Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in this year's Paralympic Games under their national flags.

"I had planned the trip to support our Paralympic athletes and the committee, but this trip will not take place, and our athlete representing Lithuania will have to be honoured here in Lithuania," Ruginienė said on Žinių Radijas.

She once again criticised the International Paralympic Committee, stating that its decision "does not reflect today's reality".

"We need unity and resilience against all provocations, and we must say that in Europe we stand united and believe in Ukraine's victory."

The Italian government, which is hosting the Winter Games, has also spoken out against the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Milan-Cortina Paralympics.

Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, stated that he will boycott the Paralympic opening ceremony over the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes.