After Ukraine's Move – Kirkorov's Hysteria

Russian pop star Philipp Kirkorov allegedly reacted with panic and threats to cancel a performance following a move by Ukraine, according to reports from a concert organizer. The singer reportedly feared for his safety and financial repercussions, exclaiming he would not risk the situation and couldn't afford potential lawsuits. Despite his initial outburst and a dispute with his director, he was reportedly convinced to proceed with the show.

This reported reaction from Kirkorov echoes similar incidents involving other pro-Kremlin artists. Singer Shaman recently canceled a concert in Sochi due to a drone attack threat, and Grigoriy Leps and Lyubov Uspenskaya also called off performances in the same city and Gelendzhik. These cancellations highlight a growing sense of unease among Russian performers regarding security.

Kirkorov, a prominent figure in Russia's music industry, has been accused of using his international concerts as a tool for promoting Russia's "soft power." His frequent performances in Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed, are seen as a direct challenge to Ukraine's sovereignty. Consequently, Kirkorov is banned from entering Ukraine and Lithuania. In January 2021, Lithuania's Migration Department prohibited his entry, citing security concerns, a decision upheld by Lithuanian courts.

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Hearing about the possible threat, he started shouting that everyone should cancel the performance, saying he was not going to risk it. He also said that he did not have enough money to pay all the claims. Kirkorov said that if anything happens, they will blame him.