Ukrainian musician Oleksiy Potapenko, known professionally as Potap, has responded to public criticism by stating that speaking the Russian language does not define his position during the war.
The rapper addressed his followers on Instagram after receiving heavy backlash alongside singer Nastya Kamenskykh, who performs as NK. The two artists recently angered many Ukrainians after releasing a video discussing language and their stance on the ongoing conflict.
Potap and Kamenskykh are prominent figures in Ukrainian popular music, having performed together for years as a successful stage duo before launching individual solo projects. Since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the use of the Russian language has become a deeply sensitive issue across the country.
Instagram statement on language
Addressing his fans online, Potap explained that knowing multiple languages should not be viewed as a rejection of Ukrainian culture. He stated that he and his team write music, speak, and create projects in Ukrainian, Russian, English, and Spanish to reach audiences in different countries.
The musician insisted that the Russian language is not the exclusive property of Russians. He argued that language skills allow a person to understand more people and communicate information about Ukraine to a broader international audience.
Potap also expressed support for residents in the capital city of Kyiv and citizens across Ukraine living through shelling. He told followers that he loves and supports those enduring difficult times, adding that outside forces are attempting to divide the country.
Calls to revoke state title
The controversy comes as public pressure grows regarding the artist's official status in Ukraine. It was previously reported that there have been calls to strip Potap of his title as an Honored Artist of Ukraine.
The Honored Artist of Ukraine is an official state honor awarded by the Ukrainian government to performers for significant contributions to the arts.
