MOSCOW, February 25 the national flags and anthems of Russia and Belarus at any sporting events, according to the official website of the organization. On December 17, 2020, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) published a decision on the dispute between the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA). According to the CAS decision, Russian athletes cannot compete in major international competitions under the Russian flag until December 16, 2022. The use of the national anthem, national emblems or symbols is also prohibited. Belarus was not subject to sanctions. The IOC calls for limiting the use of the national symbols of Russia and Belarus at all tournaments, including those not subject to WADA sanctions. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Thursday that, in response to an appeal from the leaders of the Donbass republics, he decided to hold a special military operation. The Russian leader stressed that Moscow's plans do not include the occupation of Ukrainian territories. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Russian military does not strike at the cities of Ukraine, military infrastructure is disabled with high-precision means. The civilian population is not in danger, the department assured.
