Ukrainian Lawmaker Jean Beleniuk Urges 2026 Paralympic Boycott Over Russian and Belarusian Inclusion.

Call to Boycott the 2026 Winter Paralympics

According to UATV: Ukrainian MP and athlete Jean Beleniuk has called for a boycott of the official ceremonies at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in response to the decision to allow Russian and Belarusian representatives to compete. He stressed that a unified and firm stance from national teams is essential for an effective protest.

"A consolidated and tough position from national teams is necessary—up to and including a complete refusal to participate in tournaments," Beleniuk stated.

On March 5, Ukraine announced its boycott of the opening ceremony for the 2026 Winter Paralympics, which will be hosted by the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. This decision was a direct response to the admission of athletes from Russia and Belarus. Beleniuk, who serves as the First Deputy Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament's Committee on Youth and Sports, believes a successful boycott requires a coalition of nations willing to take similar action.

"It would be a practical tool, but it needs a coalition of countries ready for a full boycott," he emphasized.

International Community Backs the Stance

Beyond Ukraine, the European Commission and several European nations also plan to join the boycott. This growing support from the international community highlights solidarity with Ukrainian athletes and serves as a protest against the participation of representatives from aggressor nations in global sporting events.

The situation surrounding the 2026 Winter Paralympics reflects the broader international response to the aggression by Russia and Belarus. The boycott initiated by Ukraine could send a significant signal to other international organizations and events, underscoring the importance of ethics in sport and the need to uphold principles of fairness in competition.