Watch Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak wear ‘Z’ war symbol on medal podium next to Ukrainian athlete Illia Kovtun
A RUSSIAN gymnast wore the controversial pro-war ‘Z’ symbol while standing beside a Ukrainian athlete on the podium.
Ukraine’s Illia Kovtun claimed victory in the parallel bars at the at the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup in Doha, Qatar.
Kazakhstan’s Milad Karimi secured the silver medal, with Russia’s Ivan Kuliak taking bronze.
But when Kuliak stepped onto the podium it became apparent he was sporting the ‘Z’ symbol on his kit.
Vladimir Putin‘s supporters have been seen wearing clothes and badges with the letter ‘Z’ on – referencing their support for the invasion of Ukraine.
The symbol has been visible on Russian tanks and military vehicles coming into Ukraine.
It is widely considered to be the sign which symbolises the war.
And Kremlin-funded TV channel Russia Today have been selling ‘Z’ merchandise.
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So when Kuliak stepped onto the podium with the ‘Z’ symbol clearly on his top, it was a shocking statement – particularly given Ukraine’s Kovtun was the winner of the discipline.
When Kovtun took to the top step to receive his gold medal, he shook hands with Kazakh Karimi but did not acknowledge Kuliak.
Ukraine is currently under attack following Putin’s decision to invade the country.
And sporting bodies have imposed strict sanctions on Russia – throwing them out of a host of major competitions including the World Cup and Winter Olympic Games.