Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin (born 7 October 1952) is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008. He was also the Prime Minister of Russia from 1999 to 2000 and again from 2008 to 2012.
Eurovision confirms Russia can still compete in 2022 contest despite invading Ukraine
Russia will still be allowed to compete in 2022’s Eurovision Song Contest, despite its invasion of Ukraine. For months, Western officials have reported that Russia has been planning an invasion of Ukraine that could begin at any moment – something Vladimir Putin has adamantly denied.
In the early hours of 24 February, however, Ukrainian officials stated that Russia had launched an all-out assault on the country, with troops crossing the border.
There have also been reports of explosions and artillery fire across the country, including around its capital city, Kyiv. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which annually organises the singing competition, swiftly issued a statement following the beginning of the invasion. “The Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political cultural event which unites nations and celebrates diversity through music,” it said. “The [EBU’s] public broadcaster members in both Russia and Ukraine have committed to participating in this year’s event in Turin and we are currently planning to welcome artists from both countries to perform in May.” “We of course will continue to monitor the situation closely,” the statement concluded.
It comes as the Public Broadcasting Company of Ukraine (UA:PBC) called on the EBU to ban Russia from the upcoming competition.
