Russians, Belarussians suspected of foreign interference barred from Paris Games
SUMMARY
French authorities have barred several Russians and Belarusians from the Paris Olympics over foreign interference concerns. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin revealed that out of nearly one million background checks, thousands of applications were rejected, including those from suspected foreign agents. The rejected applications primarily involved alleged intelligence and espionage threats, with fewer than a hundred linked to foreign interference attempts. Belarusian and Russian athletes may compete as Individual Neutral Athletes after vetting. Despite security concerns, Darmanin assured there’s “no clear threat” for the Games’ opening ceremony along the River Seine. The event will be the first-ever open-air opening ceremony.
