In a controversial decision, World Aquatics has lifted its ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flags at senior events. This ban was initially enforced following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which sidelined these athletes from international competitions. As of now, athletes from these countries will be able to participate in competitions wearing their national uniforms and displaying their flags and anthems. However, this reinstatement comes with strict conditions: athletes must pass four consecutive anti-doping tests before being allowed to compete. World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam emphasized the organization's commitment to maintaining clean sport and ensuring that competition venues remain free from political issues. This decision reflects a broader trend in international sports, echoing the International Paralympic Committee's recent allowance for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their flags at the upcoming 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan-Cortina. While some, including Russia's sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev, have welcomed the move as a step towards restoring sporting ties, the response from the global sports community has been mixed, with notable criticism of the decision.