Kremlin calls IOC decision on Russian athletes 'positive news'

The Kremlin has welcomed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision to temporarily revoke the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), calling it "positive news." This move is seen as a significant step toward restoring full relations between the ROC and the IOC.

Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyariov hailed the decision and the IOC's recommendation to international federations to lift restrictions on Russian athletes. He believes this will expedite the complete reintegration of Russian athletes into international competitions. Degtyariov noted that over 20 international sports federations already permit Russian athletes to compete under their national flag and anthem, with 10 allowing unrestricted participation, a process he expects the IOC's decision to accelerate.

The Russian Foreign Ministry also expressed satisfaction, with spokesperson Maria Zakharova characterizing the IOC's decision as a victory for common sense. The IOC's Executive Commission based its decision on a legal affairs commission report, which stated that the ROC no longer includes regional sports organizations from occupied territories in Ukraine.