The war in Ukraine prompted many sports bodies to ban athletes from Russia and its ally Belarus. On Friday, the International Olympic Committee said some of them will be allowed to take part in next year's Paris Games as "neutrals."

The IOC said the decision applies to Russian and Belarusian athletes who do not support the war. It added that only a limited number will qualify.

The athletes will be prohibited from displaying flags and emblems, and their national anthems will not be played. The IOC has so far allowed eight athletes from Russia and three from Belarus.

Russian sports minister Oleg Matytsin described the plan as "discriminatory" and said it goes "against the principles of sports."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called the decision "shameful" and warned that Russia may use the opportunity to "weaponize" the Olympics. He urged all of Ukraine's partners to strongly condemn the move.

Members of the United Nations General Assembly want to see a pause in all fighting during the Games. Last month, they adopted a resolution urging members to observe a so-called "Olympic truce."