Russian skaters banned from international events

Russian skaters on Tuesday were banned from participating in international ice skating competitions as Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine.

The International Skating Union (ISU) made the decision, saying that no Russian or Belarusian athletes “shall be invited or allowed to participate” in upcoming skating events, according to The Associated Press.

“The ISU Council reiterates its solidarity with all those affected by the conflict in Ukraine and our thoughts are with the entire Ukrainian people and country,” the organization reportedly said.

The International Volleyball Federation on Tuesday also joined the ISU in banning Russian athletes from competing and removing Russia as its host country for the men’s world championships, which are set to be held in August and September, The AP reported.

“It would be impossible to prepare and stage the World Championships in Russia due to the war in Ukraine,” the board said, according to AP.

Under the ISU’s new rule, Russian skaters Anna Shcherbakova and Kamila Valieva, who was at the center of the Olympics doping controversy, will reportedly be unable to participate in the world figure skating championships, which are scheduled in Montpellier, France, later this month.

The Norwegian Ski Federation also said Tuesday that it is banning Russian athletes from competing in its upcoming World Cup events.

Later on Tuesday, the International Ski Federation joined in excluding Russian athletes from the competition.

The moves come as the Russian military assault on Ukraine entered its sixth day.

Updated at 10:48 a.m.