Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev visited Crimea, which was illegally annexed by Russia, and expressed positive feedback about the infrastructure of the 'Crimean' sports complex. This sparked outrage within the Ukrainian community as such a visit is further confirmation of violations of international law and helps to facilitate the illegal annexation.
It was also revealed that Russian skater Aleksandra Sayutina participated in propaganda activities alongside dictator Putin and Russian military personnel, which contradicts the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee regarding neutral athletes. Such behavior from the athlete has drawn backlash and accusations of her collaboration with the aggressor during the war against Ukraine.