Amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine has sent its smallest delegation in history to the Paris Olympics, consisting of 143 athletes. Ukrainian fencer Olga Harlan, participating in her fifth Olympics, has become a symbol of resistance for her country after being disqualified at the world championships for not shaking hands with a Russian opponent. Despite the challenges posed by the war, including the loss of nearly 500 athletes and the destruction of hundreds of sports facilities, Ukrainians continue to rally in support of their Olympic team, finding inspiration and unity in their participation.
- Ukraine has sent its smallest Olympic team ever to the Paris Olympics, with 143 athletes participating.
- Olga Harlan, a Ukrainian fencer, has become a symbol of resistance in Ukraine. This is her fifth Olympic Games, where she aims to add to her collection of one gold, one silver, and one bronze medal.
- Ukraine lobbied for Russian and Belarusian athletes not to take part in the Paris Olympics. Consequently, those athletes are competing under a neutral banner and did not feature in the opening ceremony.
- In Kyiv, Ukrainians have gathered at a fan zone to cheer on their athletes, who have had to train amid Russian airstrikes.
- According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Sports, almost 500 Ukrainian athletes have been killed in the war, and hundreds of sports facilities in the country have been destroyed.
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