British News Agency

Ukrainian President Zelensky met with IOC President Coventry. He noted that Coventry congratulated him on his election and thanked the IOC for its support of Ukraine and Ukrainian athletes.

During the meeting, Zelensky emphasized that Russia continues its aggression and has taken no steps toward peace.

Zelensky said: “Today, there is no other country in the world that destroys sports infrastructure and the principles of Olympism more than the Russian state. During the full-scale war, more than 600 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been killed by Russian attacks, and hundreds of our sports facilities have been destroyed.”

He stressed that Russia seeks to turn every sporting competition into a tool of state propaganda, adding that the sports movement must distance itself from this Russian evil.

The meeting also addressed preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.

Zelensky added: “Not only Ukraine, but also many other countries that protect life expect the IOC to maintain its principled stance against both aggressive Russia and its ally Belarus during the Paris Olympics. We are ready to share all necessary information, and I would be glad to welcome Ms. Kirsty to Ukraine.”