Ukraine demands the removal of Russian serviceman from competitions.

The Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine, Matviy Bidny, the president of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine, Vadym Hutsait, and the president of the Federation of Alpine Skiing and Climbing of Ukraine, Hanna Yasyinska, demand the removal of Russian sportswoman Varvara Prokhorova from competitions in the International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) due to her military rank. They call on the international sports community to verify the information regarding Prokhorova's military status.

The ISMF website states that Russian Maxim Soldatkin works in the Office of the organization for ethics and compliance, and Prokhorova claims that he is involved in obtaining independent status.

The official website of the Russian CSKA indicates Prokhorova's military status. Ukrainian officials thanked the website 'Glavcom' for additional evidence of Prokhorova's neutrality violation.

Recommendations from the International Olympic Committee prohibit athletes with military status from participating in international competitions. However, neutral athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports can participate in competitions but must avoid any national symbols and not support the war against Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials emphasize that neutral status can only be granted to athletes with no ties to the armed forces of the Russian Federation. Since the mentioned athlete holds the rank of ensign in the Russian army, she may participate in the World Cup and the 2026 Olympics in Italy. The further decision depends on the ISMF.