Milan, Italy – The opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics was punctuated by a mix of reactions Friday evening, as US Vice President J.D. Vance’s attendance drew both jeers and applause. While the American delegation was warmly welcomed by the crowd at San Siro Stadium,Vance himself faced audible disapproval,highlighting ongoing political tensions surrounding the Games and the US role on the international stage. The ceremony also underscored continued global solidarity with Ukraine, as its athletes received the most eager support from spectators.
法新社
Milan, Italy – US Vice President JD Vance was met with boos from some in the crowd as he attended the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan on Friday evening. However, the American delegation received a resounding ovation as they entered the San Siro Stadium.
As the US athletes paraded into the stadium, Vance and his wife, Usha, were shown on the stadium’s jumbotron, clapping and waving American flags, prompting a chorus of jeers from sections of the audience.
The loudest cheers of the night were reserved for the Ukrainian team, a powerful display of support amid the ongoing conflict. Athletes from Russia, banned from the Games due to the invasion of Ukraine, participated as neutral athletes and did not appear in the parade of nations.
Earlier Friday, hundreds of protestors gathered in Milan to demonstrate against Vance’s visit and the presence of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, who are in the city to assist with security for the American contingent.
Vance also met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday. The two conservative leaders, who share a close relationship with former US President Donald Trump, reportedly discussed shared values during their meeting. Vance praised the “common ground” between the two nations.
