President of France Emmanuel Macron has categorically said Russia as a country has no place at the 2024 Paris Olympics and that no Russian flag should be used or seen at the games.

While speaking to the French sports newspaper l’Equipe, Macron added that discussions should be held about the participation of some Russian athletes who “may also be victims of this regime.”

He said “Obviously, there can’t be a Russian flag at the Paris Olympic Games. Because Russia as a country has no place [at the Games] when it has committed war crimes and deported children.”

Ultimately, the French President said, the decision would be made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).