Russian gymnast wins European gold as Ukrainian rival covers ears during Russian anthem

Russian gymnast Yana Zaikina won gold in the ribbon event at the 2026 Junior European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships. As the Russian national anthem played during the medal ceremony, a Ukrainian competitor visibly covered her ears and closed her eyes.

Russian rhythmic gymnast Yana Zaikina, who trains at Alina Kabaeva's gymnastics academy, claimed gold in the ribbon discipline at the 2026 Junior European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships.

The medal ceremony sparked an emotional moment when the Russian national anthem began to play. A Ukrainian competitor on the podium was seen covering her ears and closing her eyes — a silent but powerful protest against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.

The image quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread attention and reigniting debate over the participation of Russian athletes in international competitions under neutral or national flags.