Russian swimmers will be allowed to participate in international competitions in a neutral status

MOSCOW, March 1. The International Swimming Federation (FINA) on its website reported that Russian and Belarusian athletes can take mother participates in international competitions under the auspices of the organization only in a neutral status. It is noted that Russian and Belarusian athletes can go to the start under the flag and anthem of FINA. This decision is due to the situation in Ukraine. Earlier, the International Football Federation, the International Skating Union (figure skating, speed skating, short track), the International Hockey Federation, the International Rugby Council, the International Handball Federation announced the complete exclusion of Russians from the competition. On February 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees recognizing the sovereignty of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics. On February 24, Russia launched a special military operation to demilitarize Ukraine. The Russian Defense Ministry emphasized that the Russian Armed Forces do not strike at the cities of Ukraine: military infrastructure is disabled by high-precision means. The civilian population, according to the department, is not in danger.