France to propose ‘Olympic ceasefire’ in Ukraine conflict – Macron — RT World News
The ancient tradition of the Olympic Truce was originally implemented to ensure safe travel for pilgrims and athletes
French President Emmanuel Macron said he will ask Russia for a ceasefire in Ukraine during the Summer Olympics scheduled to be held in Paris between July 26 and August 11.
In an interview with Ukrainian media on Saturday, Macron was asked whether France, as the host of this year's Games, would follow tradition and strive to achieve this. “Ceasefire during the Olympics.” The journalist appeared to be referring to the Olympic Truce, a period of cessation of conflict that historically began seven days before the Games and ended seven days after so that athletes could travel safely to and from the Olympics.
“will be requested” The French leader responded.
“The rule of the host country is to move in keeping with the Olympic movement.” The French leader said when asked about his views on the situation in which Russian athletes are allowed to participate under a neutral flag.
“This is a message of peace. We will also follow the Olympic Committee’s decision,” he added.
The IOC originally banned Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing internationally, following the escalation of the military conflict in Ukraine in February 2022. But last year, the organization reconsidered the blanket ban, and conditions were set to allow it. Individuals, not teams, are required to participate on the condition that they do so under a neutral flag.
The decision sparked condemnation from Kiev, where President Vladimir Zelensky called for a complete boycott of the games. However, Ukraine later softened its stance and allowed its athletes to compete as long as Russians and Belarusians were only present as neutral athletes.
While Moscow condemned and described the demands of the International Olympic Committee “Unreasonable, legally invalid, and excessive.”President of the Russian Olympic Committee, Stanislav Pozdnyakov, confirmed on Thursday that this year's Olympic Games in Paris will not be ignored, despite the restrictions.
He added: “We will never follow the path of boycotting (the Games). “We will always support our athletes.” He told RIA Novosti.
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