The Russian government has drawn a lawbill to include the new regions into the Russian sport system, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said at a Cabinet meeting.   “The draft law on spreading the domestic sport system to the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics and Zaporozhye and Kherson regions is on today’s agenda,” Mishustin said. “Their athletes, coaches and referees will be able to enjoy all kinds of state assistance. The document drawn by the government will help them establish regional federations and join federal ones as full-fledged members.”   The new regions will be authorized to award sport grades and titles, participate in competitions of all levels individually or in teams and enjoy benefits and preferences including those for winners and awardees.   Residents in the new territories who were awarded distinctions under the Ready for Labor and Defense program, are entitled to extra points when enrolling at Russian universities.   “These measures will help preserve sport traditions and encourage youths to aspire to higher achievements,” Mishustin said.   The Lugansk People’s Republic, Donetsk People’s Republic and Zaporozhye and Kherson regions acceded to Russia on September 30, 2022 following the unification referenda. *i*ie