Ukraine Sanctions Russian Athletes

In a decisive move on February 16, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy enacted sanctions against ten Russian athletes accused of supporting Russia’s military actions and participating in the abduction of Ukrainian children. The sanctions, confirmed through a presidential decree, were based on the recommendations of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.

This action targets individuals who have not only endorsed Russia’s aggressive stance but also participated in unauthorized visits to occupied Ukrainian territories including Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Crimea. These athletes have been involved in various activities ranging from justifying Russia’s actions in Ukraine to organizing events for abducted Ukrainian children and fundraising for Russian military efforts.

President Zelenskyy underscored the significance of the sanctions as a global message against the implicit support for aggression. He highlighted the injustice faced by Ukrainian athletes at international platforms, where they are restricted from speaking out against the atrocities. “This Ukrainian sanctions package should be a signal to others around the world – a signal that one cannot simply turn a blind eye to support for aggression,” Zelenskyy stated, asserting Ukraine’s commitment to restoring justice.