The Russian diplomatic office in Georgia has denounced what it described as “yet another Russophobic stunt” by a “well-known group of politically motivated individuals” protesting the participation of Russian athletes—competing under neutral status—at the World Fencing Championship in Tbilisi.
The statement, issued by the Russian Interests Section at the Swiss Embassy in Georgia, followed a July 27 demonstration outside Tbilisi’s Sports Palace. Protesters gathered to oppose the inclusion of Russian fencers in the tournament, some of whom are affiliated with the Russian military and sanctioned by Ukraine. During the rally, demonstrators also burned a Russian flag.
“These provocative actions clearly aim to exploit anti-Russian sentiment to rally radical forces and tarnish Tbilisi’s image as a reputable host city,” the Russian diplomatic mission stated on July 28.
While acknowledging the organizers’ efforts to maintain high standards for the championship, the Interests Section called on Georgian authorities to ensure a “fair, non-discriminatory, and depoliticized” environment for the competition.
A total of 24 Russian athletes are competing in Tbilisi, including Major Sofya Velikaya, Lieutenant Yana Egorian, and Warrant Officer Olga Nikitina—each reportedly decorated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Velikaya is also listed under Ukrainian sanctions.
Their participation was made possible by a controversial decision from the International Fencing Federation (FIE), which allowed Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under a “neutral” flag. The move sparked backlash from over 400 international fencers, who urged the federation to reverse its decision.
The protest in Tbilisi came despite earlier calls from the president of the Georgian Fencing Federation to keep politics out of sport. The demonstration drew sharp criticism from Moscow, including from Russian State Duma Deputy Dmitry Svishchev.
“It’s crucial for Georgian authorities to respond to this unprecedented provocation—not just against Russian athletes, but against the entire sporting community, including the FIE,” Svishchev said. “If Georgia agrees to host an international event, including responsibilities around visa support and security, it must also bear responsibility for ensuring athletes’ safety.”
Svishchev further suggested that the protest may have been orchestrated, possibly with involvement from Ukrainian athletes. “It looks like a well-planned provocation. We don’t know who exactly was behind it, but I’ve seen reports that Ukrainian athletes were preparing something—perhaps this was it,” he added.
Related story: Controversy erupts as Russian military-affiliated fencers compete at world championships in Tbilisi
