Vilnius mayor seeks ban on Russian artist Morgenshtern over security concerns

Vilnius Mayor Valdemaras Benkunskas has escalated efforts to prevent Russian artist Morgenshtern from performing in Lithuania, citing national security concerns. Benkunskas has formally requested that relevant institutions evaluate whether the artist's planned concert could threaten Lithuania's national security or public order.

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How much longer will we allow Russian artists to wipe their feet on our state?

In a statement on his Facebook page, Benkunskas questioned how long Lithuania would allow Russian artists to perform in the country, especially during the fifth year of Russia's war against Ukraine. He highlighted that Morgenshtern has previously expressed ambiguity about Crimea's status and publicly shown respect for Vladimir Putin. The artist was added to Ukraine's list of individuals posing a threat to national security at the request of Ukraine's Security Service, due to his promotion of violence, drug use, and conflict escalation.

Benkunskas expressed frustration with the situation, calling it an "absurdity and mockery of the state." He recalled that last year, his appeal led to a 10-year entry ban for the artist, which was initially upheld by a regional court but later overturned by the Supreme Administrative Court due to procedural violations. The mayor believes these procedural issues can be rectified to uphold a principled stance.

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This absurdity and mockery of the state must end.

The mayor also mentioned proposing legislative changes to curb the activities of cultural representatives associated with the "Russian world." While a draft law was supported for submission to parliament, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reportedly suggested rejecting it, favoring sanctions against legal entities rather than individuals like Morgenshtern. Benkunskas urged for political will from both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Seimas to address such issues systematically and prevent further performances by artists who he believes disrespect Lithuania and divide society.

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It is important to solve such issues systematically. It is not enough to appeal to consciousness as was customary.