SOCHI, Russia (AP) — In the fading light in the mountains above Sochi, the athletes and flags from Russia and Ukraine appeared side by side Saturday, united by success on the opening day of action at the Paralympics as the discord between their nations deepens.

The collection of gold, silver and bronze medals amassed by Ukraine justified — in sporting terms — the decision before Friday’s opening ceremony not to boycott the Winter Games in protest at Russia’s military occupation of the nearby Crimean peninsula.