Anastasia Kucherova, a Russian architect living in Milan, took a bold step at the Milan Cortina Winter Games. She carried the Ukraine team placard during the opening ceremony. Kucherova wore dark glasses and a long silver puffer jacket to keep her identity hidden. The Ukraine sign was brightly lit, drawing cheers from the crowd. Originally, country assignments were random, but later volunteers could choose. Kucherova chose Ukraine. She quietly cried as Ukraine received a standing ovation. Her Russian nationality was not announced during the ceremony. She revealed her role first on Instagram and then to reporters. "I have to be worried," Kucherova said, showing her fear. Her act was a silent but powerful protest against Russia’s war on Ukraine.