Ukrainian chess players were advised not to shake hands with opponents from Russia and Belarus

The Ukrainian Chess Federation recommended that participants in international competitions "refrain from shaking hands with representatives of Russia and Belarus, regardless of what flag they play under."

Also, Ukrainian athletes are advised to avoid joint photo and video filming with Russians and Belarusians and communication with them, if this is not directly related to participation in a chess match. In addition, the Chess Federation asked "to refrain from actions that could harm the image of Ukraine."

During performances in public space, athletes are advised to remind the world community of the ongoing war and that many Russians and Belarusians either support it, "or silently watch the killings and genocide of Ukrainians."

Earlier, Ukrainian saber fencer Olga Kharlan refused to shake hands with a Russian woman after a duel at the World Fencing Championships. Because of this, Harlan was disqualified, but then the disqualification was suspended . After that, the International Fencing Federation abolished the rule of mandatory handshake after the fight.

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