Russian swimmer featured in propaganda video wins prestigious competition in Spain.

Swimmer Kolesnikov triumphs at the 'Mare Nostrum' stage

At the 'Mare Nostrum' competition, renowned swimmer Kliment Kolesnikov won the 100-meter backstroke, clocking in at 53.91 seconds. The competition will last until May 22, and Russian athletes are competing under neutral status.

Propaganda video and athletes' reactions

«You are the leader of our friendly country. You are the leader of winners, the support of hundreds of millions of hearts», the authors of the video state, which also features athletes: Alina Zagitova, Svetlana Romashina, Yana Egoryan, Lala Kramarenko, and Alexandra Patskevich.

The initiative to create the video was led by an organization that is under sanctions from Ukraine due to its involvement in mass abductions, illegal deportation, and forced displacement of Ukrainian citizens.

Reactions from skater Korzhova

Kseniya Korzhova, recognized as a neutral athlete, expressed support for the war by liking posts that endorse Russian aggression. Nagorny, who has been sanctioned by several countries for supporting aggression against Ukraine, was one of the recipients of likes.

Did not qualify for the Olympics due to support for the war

Four Russian figure skaters were excluded from participating in the Olympics due to their support for the war. Other athletes who also expressed support were denied the opportunity to represent their country at the highest sports level.

In the sporting world, scandals and incidents continue related to political support and interference in the internal affairs of other countries. The public is actively reacting to the actions of athletes and organizations that violate the principles of international cooperation and sports diplomacy.