Minister Purga reaffirmed Estonia’s unwavering support for Ukraine and stressed that the IOC’s decision should be followed by a united European approach.
"As Russia continues its war of aggression against Ukraine, sport cannot be treated separately from broader issues of international law and European security. Europe must make full use of the available European Union instruments to prevent the normalisation of agressor states in international sport," minister Purga said.
Following the meeting, Ukraine's Minister of Youth and Sports Matvii Bidnyi, said:
"For European sanctions to be truly effective, it is crucial to ensure a strict visa policy, block propaganda from the aggressor state, and suspend EU funding for sports organisations that enable Russia's return. In our discussions with European colleagues, there is a clear shared understanding that, as long as this brutal war continues, Russia has no place in international sport. We are deeply grateful to Estonia for its consistent support and leadership in upholding these principles."
The ministers discussed the broader implications of the IOC decision and agreed on the importance of strengthening cooperation among European countries to uphold the integrity and values of international sport while maintaining strong support for Ukraine.
