The EU is preparing sanctions against Russian sports chief Degtyarev
The European Union is considering imposing sanctions against Russian Sports Minister and Head of the Russian Olympic Committee Mikhail Degtyarev, as well as a number of other sports officials. The reason for this is his public statements linking sporting victories to Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine.
The decision may be included in the new, 21st EU sanctions package, which is currently being discussed in Brussels.
According to EUobserver, citing a draft document, the restrictions may apply not only to Degtyarev but also to former ROC head Stanislav Pozdnyakov and President of the Russian Wrestling Federation Mikhail Mamiashvili.
This marks another phase of EU sanctions pressure on individuals whom European officials believe are linked to supporting or legitimizing Russian aggression. Mikhail Degtyarev has previously stated publicly that victories by Russian athletes at the Paralympics could serve as a “beacon” for Russian military personnel, whom the Russian Federation refers to as participants in the so-called “special military operation.” “The Paralympic Committee conducts systematic rehabilitation and social adaptation of veterans, including master classes and sports competitions in which they participate. And I see that this is a good cause that helps children. Of course, in addition to being a national holiday, it serves as a beacon precisely for veterans of the special military operation,” he said.
Such statements drew additional attention from European politicians amid discussions of a new sanctions package. The EU continues to expand its sanctions lists, including not only military personnel and officials but also individuals from the sports, media, and cultural sectors if, in Brussels’ view, they contribute to war propaganda.
Meanwhile, Russian sports continue to face restrictions in international competitions, and the issue of its participation in major tournaments remains politically sensitive. The final decision on the new sanctions package is expected to be adopted following agreement among EU member states. This is reported by the EUobserver portal, citing a draft document that came into its possession.
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