**New IOC President Opposes Banning Countries Over Conflicts**
Kirsty Coventry, the newly elected president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), says she opposes banning countries from the Olympics due to conflicts. In an interview with Sky News, she questioned why Russia is singled out while conflicts continue in other regions.
Coventry plans to establish a task force to create a framework for handling such situations. She believes that all athletes should be able to compete, regardless of their country’s actions. This approach contrasts with the policies of outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach, who oversaw restrictions on Russian athletes after the invasion of Ukraine.
**Concerns Over Russia’s Potential Return**
Coventry’s stance has raised concerns about Russia’s potential return to the Olympics. After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russian athletes could only compete as neutrals in the Paris 2024 Games. Coventry has signaled her intention to discuss Russia’s reinstatement.
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated her on her victory, further fueling speculation about the IOC’s direction under her leadership. Russia’s sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev wrote on Telegram that they are waiting for the Olympic movement to become stronger and more independent, with the hope of Russia returning to the Olympic podium.
**Conflict Updates**
Russia attacked the city of Zaporizhzhia on March 21, killing two people, including a 20-year-old woman. President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the war with his Czech counterpart Petr Pavel in Kyiv and met with his American counterparts to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Air Force intercepted 114 of 214 Russian drones launched overnight, including Shahed-type attack drones. The RAF could deploy fighter jets to conduct air patrols over Ukraine. A Russian oil pumping station is still on fire after reportedly being struck by Ukrainian drones on March 19.
**Calls for Peace**
President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a full ceasefire and contract will soon be reached, while U.S. President Donald Trump discussed the future deal with Western leaders. The proposal follows ongoing efforts by a “coalition of the willing” led by the U.K. and France to provide security guarantees to Ukraine.
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