Eurovision Song Contest contestants are officially prohibited from making political statements on stage, verbally or in lyrics, but that hasn’t stopped the Ukrainian Kalush Orchestra.
The leader of the group, Oleh Psyuk, completed Stephanie’s performance to help free Ukrainian fighters from around the world in Mariupol, under the Azovstal steel mill.
As the band members bowed, Psyche exclaimed, “Help Azovstal now!”
The organizers of the event, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), said that despite its rules banning politics, no action will be taken against the Kalush Orchestra, which won the competition with a staggering 439 audience votes in all of Europe.
The EBU said: “We understand the deep feelings surrounding Ukraine at the moment and believe that the comments made by the Kalush Orchestra and other artists expressing their support for the Ukrainian people are humanitarian and not political in nature.”
After his group’s victory, Psyuk thanked the Ukrainian diaspora and “and all those who voted for Ukraine said:“ Victory is very important for Ukraine. “Especially this year.”
Among the last defenders of the factory is the Azov Battalion, which thanked the group for the underground tunnels under the factory and posted on social media: “Thanks to the Kalush Orchestra for the support! Glory to Ukraine! “
Evidence that this message of support had reached Russia’s ears surfaced this morning when footage appeared on the Kremlin’s pro-Kremlin channel on FighterBomber showing the bombs adorning the group’s mocking call. The badge included the words: “Just as you asked for, Kalusha! For Azovstal it is „# Eurovision2022. I heard a call to Azov. Help Mariupol. “Help Mariupol right now.”
Ukrainian President Zelensky is delighted with his country’s victory in this year’s competition and acknowledged that next year’s event will be held in the currently besieged southern port city of Mariupol.
Source: Deadline
Elizabeth Cabrera is an author and journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a talent for staying up-to-date on the latest news and trends, Elizabeth is dedicated to delivering informative and engaging articles that keep readers informed on the latest developments.
