Ukraine's National Paralympic Committee announced team members will skip the Milan-Cortina Games opening ceremony after the IPC allowed Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their flags. The decision follows a Court of Arbitration of Sport ruling that overturned bans imposed by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), enabling 10 Paralympians from both nations to participate in alpine, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding events starting 6 March. Despite this, Ukraine’s team will still compete in the Games, focusing on securing victories while rejecting the IPC’s handling of the situation.

The IPC defended its stance, citing a vote by nearly 180 of its 211 members at the 2025 General Assembly to lift partial suspensions against Russia and Belarus. Ukrainian officials called the decision "shameful" and inconsistent with Paralympic principles, emphasizing their demand that the Ukrainian flag not be used during the ceremony. This protest highlights tensions between sporting inclusivity and geopolitical conflicts.

Bipartite commission invites, granted to athletes bypassing federation-led qualification, have allowed Ukrainian competitors to join despite FIS bans. While Ukraine has secured slots in three sports, the boycott signals broader dissatisfaction with the IPC’s neutrality. Russian and Belarusian athletes, previously suspended post-2022 invasion, have regained participation rights through legal appeals, complicating Paralympic unity.

This standoff underscores the IPC’s struggle to balance democratic governance with ethical obligations. As the Games approach, Ukraine’s stance risks further diplomatic friction, even as Russian and Belarusian athletes prepare to compete under restored privileges. The IPC maintains its decision reflects member-state consensus, but critics argue it prioritizes procedural compliance over moral accountability.