Belarus has been readmitted to the international draughts federation, despite significant concerns about the sport’s diminished quality and the implications of the decision. The reinstatement follows a period of exclusion, but occurs as approximately half of the world’s top draughts players are no longer participating. Estonian draughts player Janek Mäggi has criticized the move, stating the competitive level has declined substantially. He also points out that smaller national federations lack the autonomy to independently dictate foreign policy, suggesting external pressures influenced the decision. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has indicated he intends to visit Russia immediately following the conclusion of the war in Ukraine. The readmission raises questions about the balance between sporting neutrality and geopolitical considerations within the international draughts community.