Russia

Macron: Russia Will Target Paris Olympics

APR 5 2024·Updated APR 6 2024

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The Facts

French Pres. Emmanuel Macron on Thursday said that he had "no doubt" Russia will attempt to target the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Reuters
This is the first time Macron has explicitly acknowledged the possibility of foreign threats to the security of the games, which will take place against the complex backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza conflicts.
Ukrainska Pravda
Macron hasn't ruled out placing European troops in Ukraine. Though the leader hasn't taken an openly hostile stance against Moscow, he has claimed the Kremlin is running a disinformation campaign across the continent.
The Straits Times
Macron's comments come after Russia's defense minister suggested that the French special services had a role in last month's deadly Moscow concert hall attack, in which at least 145 were killed.
ABC News
There's speculation that Russia may repeat actions taken in 1984, when it boycotted the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and held its own "Friendship Games" with 49 nations.
The Mirror
The International Olympic Committee has suspended Russia from the 2024 Games. However, Russian athletes are allowed to compete as neutrals as long as they don't show support for Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine.
Channels Television

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The Spin

Anti-Russia narrative

The war in Ukraine adds another layer to fears that the Paris Olympics could be attacked or exploited by dictatorial regimes like Russia for propaganda purposes. France is evaluating terrorist threats ahead of the event following the recent attack on a Moscow concert hall. Their strong security measures aside, French officials acknowledge the broader geopolitical tensions and potential for cyber-attacks.

guardian

Pro-Russia narrative

Russia has no plans to disrupt the upcoming Olympics, and suggestions that Moscow has some scheme to interrupt the competition is propagandist vilification. Russian athletes have the right to equal treatment and the onus for maintaining the safety of competitors and spectators should rest with the host nation — France.

TASS