Italy plans to propose a global ceasefire during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina to promote peace worldwide, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani on October 7, 2025.

Tajani emphasized Italy's role as a hub for peace, development, and growth, supporting the US plan for Gaza and referencing Pope Leo XIV's call for hope in peace, with the proposal announced at the 12th Italy-Latin America and the Caribbean Conference in Rome.

The IOC has indicated that Russian and Belarusian athletes may participate in the 2026 Olympics under certain conditions, though their participation remains controversial and conditional.

Recent geopolitical tensions include Russian President Vladimir Putin claiming opposition from NATO countries in the Ukraine conflict, alongside Ukraine's reports of drone attacks and sabotage by Russia in Europe.

Historical conflicts during Olympic events, such as the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics during the Georgia-Russia war and Russia's annexation of Crimea during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, highlight the ongoing relevance of peace initiatives.

Despite international efforts, calls for ceasefires during recent Olympics, including the 2024 Paris Games, have largely gone unheeded.

Ukraine aims to end the war within the year and adheres to the UN Charter, while Russia shows no signs of willingness to cease hostilities or engage in negotiations.

The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first hosted by two cities and the first Winter Games since 1984, with opening and closing ceremonies in different locations.

The broader context involves ongoing conflicts such as the Ukraine invasion and the recognition of Palestinian statehood by some Western countries amid the war in Gaza.

Scheduled for February 6-22, 2026, in Italy, the Winter Olympics follow the 2024 Summer Olympics in France, which faced security concerns including restrictions on Russian journalists and suspected espionage.

Despite Italy's diplomatic efforts and international appeals for a ceasefire, especially from Kyiv and Washington, Russia remains reluctant to cease hostilities, raising questions about the effectiveness of the proposed peace initiative.

The idea of an Olympic ceasefire has historical roots in ancient Greece, where warring factions agreed to a truce during the Games, and modern efforts supported by the IOC continue to promote this ideal.

For the first time, ski mountaineering will be included in the Winter Olympics, reflecting new sports and venue flexibility, with competitions held in mountainous areas and indoor sports in cities more than 160 km apart.