Kazan, Russia – The 2023 Special Olympics World Winter Games in the Russian city of Kazan have been canceled in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the event's governing body said on Friday.

The Kazan event for people with intellectual disabilities was due to be staged this year but was pushed back to January 21-27, 2023, owing to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We can no longer ensure the effectiveness of the World Winter Games in Kazan or the safety of our athletes and community," a statement from Special Olympics International said.

"The horrific violence in Ukraine, the extensive sanctions implemented by the international community, and the uncertainty and fear being experienced around the world make it impossible to proceed."

The statement added that "persons with intellectual disability are suffering disproportionately, unfairly, and tragically in this war."

"We join our voices to millions around the world demanding peace and an end to violence immediately," it said.

The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) meanwhile became the latest sports body to suspend athletes and officials from Russia and Belarus, according to a statement late Thursday.

"These exceptional measures were decided and issued in view of the extraordinary circumstances arising in Ukraine," the IWF said.

"They constitute preventive measures aiming at preserving the integrity of sport, the relationships between our members and between all the participants.

"They are also aimed at protecting the safety of all participants, including in particular the participants from the two above mentioned countries," The IWF said.