Latvia’s message is clear: Polina Gagarina and Natalya Podolskaya are not welcome in the country.

On Thursday, Latvia’s Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs included the two Eurovision alums on a list of 25 Russian entertainers and artists deemed “undesirable persons” for “expressing active support for the long-running aggression of the Russian authorities against Ukraine.”

As Latvian public media LSV reports, the list includes 20 people who took part in a highly publicised event in Moscow on 18 March. Artists, including Polina, performed at the Luzhniki Stadium to mark the eighth anniversary of Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and to rally support for the country’s ongoing war in Ukraine. 

President Putin appeared, stating that Russians “have not had such unity for a long time.” 

But, as the BBC reports, not everyone in the audience actually wanted to be there.

“Many told the BBC they worked in the public sector, and that they had been pressured into attending by their employers.”

“Students told us they had been given the option of a day off from lectures if they attended ‘a concert’. Some of the students we spoke to didn’t even know that the event was dedicated, in part, to support the war in Ukraine.”

The list of undesirable persons includes: Maria Sitela, Dmitry Guberniev, Vladimir Mashkov, Artyom Fence, Tina Candelaki, Viktor Polakov, Polina Gagarin, Nikolai Rastorgujev, Vitaly Loktev, Alexander Jerohin, Sergei Pereguda, Vasily Peguda, Vasily Denis Macujev, Nikita Mikhalkov, Valery Gergiev, Dmitry Streltsov, Alexei Tarasov, Pavel Suchkov, Alexei Kantur, Sergei Polunin, Victoria Ciganova, Stanislav Mikhailov.

Polina’s public support of the war has disgusted Eurovision fans. Her 2015 entry — the peace anthem “A Million Voices” — is completely at odds with the brutal war being waged in Russia’s name by Mr. Putin. 

Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that “those included in the list of undesirable persons for Latvia clearly justify and propagate the unprovoked and unjustifiable Russian invasion and war in Ukraine.”

“Latvia strongly condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war in Ukraine, which has lasted for almost a month and where Ukrainian civilians and soldiers are losing their lives every day as a result of the brutal actions of the Russian armed forces. Entry into Latvia is not allowed.”

 
 
 
 
 
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190 Comments
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Nunya
Nunya
2 years ago

Already removed all of Polina’s muZic from my Spotify playlist after hearing she appeared at the rally. Even if only 1c of my subscription fee went to her, it’s too much.

TheDrMistery
TheDrMistery
2 years ago

Lithuania no points for Russia in 2015 and anti-boo technology linger in my head…

Giza
Giza
2 years ago

In addition to the letter “Z” and a banner with slogans in favor of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Polina Gagarina, took part in the pro-war fiesta organized by Vladimir Putin in Moscow on the anniversary of the annexation of Crimea. It’s humiliating to think that singers should only sing and concentrate on their art, ignoring what’s going on around them. It’s not only good voices they possess, they also have brains and hearts. The mass murder of innocent people in Ukraine is done in their name also, in the name of Great Russia of Culture that was so admired… Read more »

Sometimes
Sometimes
2 years ago

Not even remotely same situation at all

JVHJ
JVHJ
2 years ago

Russian troll. Go to hell.

JVHJ
JVHJ
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

Well, it doesn’t change anything, you are doing russian propaganda.

Steven
Steven
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

I agree that all sides in a conflict should be held accountable. Yes, it is true that our most recent focus is on Ukraine (and rightly so), but we should also be aware that there are people who live outside Europe and who suffer just like Ukrainians (or even more), mostly because our governments have decided to invade (and/or attack) their countries.

JVHJ
JVHJ
2 years ago
Reply to  Steven

“I agree that all sides in a conflict should be held accountable”. – This is a despicable relativization. Russia is engaged in a determined assault on Western democracies and their institutions. When Vladimir Putin shattered the peace in Europe by unleashing war on a democracy of 44 million people, his justification was that modern, Western-leaning Ukraine was a constant threat and Russia could not feel “safe, develop and exist”. Civilians are being killed and maimed in what appear to be indiscriminate attacks, with Russian forces using explosive weapons with wide area effects in or near populated areas. Having witnessed Mr Putin’s… Read more »

Steven
Steven
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

I agree with everything you have said. 100%. I am just saying that we need to sanction anyone who invades other countries, be that Russia, Azerbaijan, or EU countries.

Piet
Piet
2 years ago
Reply to  Steven

All sides in a conflict are responsible?!? So if I am walking in the street and decide to beat you up JUST BECAUSE I AM STRONGER, then you consider yourself guilty as well?!? Get real!!

Steven
Steven
2 years ago
Reply to  Piet

you are right. thanks for noting that. I was more commenting on the fact that we only see Russia as the main aggressor today when we in fact have NUMEROUS countries all over the world that have invaded other sovereign countries and yet were not held responsible. So, whoever gets involved in invasion of a country needs to be sanctioned, be that Russia, the US, Azerbaijan, etc..

Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Steven

you are using a rethoric trick named whataboutism usually used to avoid talking about the real question. I wonder why. The real question is about Russian artists that are supporting aggression and war against a neigboor that they want to crush into obedience, do think that is ok?

Erik
Erik
2 years ago
Reply to  Steven

That is true, but nothing of that justifies what Russia are doing now to a European democratic neighbour. Furthermore it belongs in another discussion. If Russia take no responsibility for their actions in Ucraine and won’t even call it a war. This is so serious that it does not help shifting the perspective the way pro Putin people does. They even claim that Ucraine is bombing their own hospitals and maternity wards. They will have to stay outside of the EBU at least as long as Putin is in power and find themselves being hated all over Europe. They all… Read more »

JVHJ
JVHJ
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

Everything. Russia hates NATO and Latvia’s participation. Simply, you support criminal Russia and you’re drawing attention away from Ukraine.

Piet
Piet
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

Russia waged war in Syria and used chemical weapons there. Not NATO, you Russian troll.

Sometimes
Sometimes
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

It’s not nato who launched chemical weapons in your country. You are probably russian troll indeed or very brainwashed.

Erik2
Erik2
2 years ago
Reply to  JVHJ

It’s Russia who bombed Syria to pieces. If you don’t know that I guess you’re not from Syria. Russia did this to keep the dictator in power. Russia likes dictators.

Eglutt
Eglutt
1 year ago
Reply to  Erik2

TRUTH BOMB THERE. The fact that Russia doe not even hide that they were using Syria as training grounds for what they are doing at this very moment in Ukraine should tell you enough who’s your enemy.

OAN
OAN
2 years ago

Clown emoji

Giza
Giza
2 years ago

RF may conduct a full-scale offensive on Poland , the Baltic states & Kazakhstan as part of a global military special operation on demilitarization & denazification. This was stated by Russia MP Savostyanov. It’s only the beginning. Russia frankly promises there will be a lot of European blood. Polina supports it.

EscXqueen
EscXqueen
2 years ago

I guess the EBU should not recognize Russia’s results anymore and remove them from the scoreboards in the past years!!

Erik2
Erik2
2 years ago
Reply to  EscXqueen

We don’t have to change history the way Putin constantly alters history in his own favor. Now is now and that was then. In those days there were still hope for Russia. That is over now.

Raul Lopes Simao
Raul Lopes Simao
2 years ago

First I have to say that I stand for ukraine 10000%. I already help from my country, packaging things and help as volunteer for ukraine. I cry every single day and they are on my prayers every night. I Will give two weeks Of my life in Next mounth going as a Volunteer to the border. But I have to say to everyone here that are crucifying her that neither Of us knows that she os fully aware Of what is really hapening in ukraine or even if she was forced to sing by putin dark forces. We cant crucyfie… Read more »

Helene
Helene
2 years ago

Did you see what she did? It is like you are not understanding what happend. No one is judging the whole Russian population here. Quite the opposite. I am impressed by those Russians that actually protest. They are brave and I can understand that you are afraid and try to cope with it. But standing in an arena singing in a rally for war is another thing. That is why she is condemned. Others Russians are protesting, refusing or even leave their country. She has a choice and she choose to go with a dictator. People like her facilitate the… Read more »

Last edited 2 years ago by Helene
Raul Lopes Simao
Raul Lopes Simao
2 years ago
Reply to  Helene

I do understand. I hád seen she singing always trying to unserstand her expressions and she was cold as ice ar Putins nazi arena…. But it feels so strange that someone that stand beside conchita wurst taking photos and singing. That affter that had problems because she was gay friendly now she s just a friend of war. .. i dont know. Was she obliged?? We just dont know. That s what I try to transmit to all of you. We just dont know. Maybe she a just a b…. Nazi .Maybe she s not

Helene
Helene
2 years ago

She was a hypocrite when she was in Eurovision. She is not uneducated and has money so she can just leave Russia. It is clear that she is supporting the war. There is no excuse. I am Swedish and as a neighbor to Russia we are more aware of the situation than those who are further away. They don’t feel the threat.

Last edited 2 years ago by Helene
Raul Lopes Simao
Raul Lopes Simao
2 years ago
Reply to  Helene

I understand your point. Really . We are far from Rússia thanks god. Altough that was not my point. My point is that We can not judge no one Before We know all facts … that s only it. We can judge putin cause he is a son of a bit…. Killer a monster and nazi. We can judge those Rússian soldiers that kill civilians . We can judge all oligarcs. We can judge moraly all of those because We know that They are bad and wrong . Off topic . Euphoria is my favorit esc song ever. Stattements is… Read more »

Erik2
Erik2
2 years ago

We can also blame all those silent Russians for putting him in power and then let him gradually take away their freedom. Being silent does not make you free of responsibility. It is the Russian people who put him in power and it is in their name he is carrying out this war. It is also they who have to put him where he belongs. Behind bars.

Erik2
Erik2
2 years ago

She as all of us has to take responsibility for her actions. That event is celebrating when Russia went into Ucraine and stole their land in 2014. What is happening now is a continuation of what happened then.

Raul Lopes Simao
Raul Lopes Simao
2 years ago
Reply to  Helene

Still I do understand all the anger against her. She had de Z on her chest. …
Maybe she s an hipocrate at Vienna Maybe she was obliged . I dont know .
Still slavia ukraine.
Im Portuguese and We are recieving our brave ukranian people with open arms .
Long live to freedom dignity and respect

Sometimes
Sometimes
2 years ago

She sang at the event, she was wearing Z, she has liked pro invasion posts on social media.

What other proof do you need?

There is a light guiding my way
There is a light guiding my way
2 years ago

Those of you who say “Russians are not aware” are just naive. Only elderly people who don’t have access to internet might not be aware. All those who have internet are pretty much aware of everything and if they choose to openly support it then they actually support it. This is especially true for the rich and famous. There is a saying for this “money doesn’t smell”. As specifically for Polina, she has always openly supported Putin.

Eglutt
Eglutt
1 year ago

she’s been married to an oligarch who bought her a career. She needed to replay somehow the lifestyle that she’s used to. That’s all.

Eglutt
Eglutt
1 year ago
Reply to  Eglutt

P.S. we do have a full right to judje the “peace loving white dove” Polina AND ukrainian-ESC-wanabee Maruv. The latter one disappeared from social media right since the war started. All of ukrainian bands changed their video thumbnails to ukrainians flags, guess who didn’t.

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago

Anyone that has ESC scoreboard I think it would be nice if anyone who has Russia 2015 in their top 10 can drag it outta it so it will lose points in the app.

Sabrina
Sabrina
2 years ago
Reply to  Sir Stevia

It was probably already out if i made my ranking back then didn’t liked the song back then and i still don’t

sam
sam
2 years ago
Reply to  Sir Stevia

i did that last night. i wanna see her plummet lmao

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  sam

She’s currently 4th with over 75K votes so I doubt she’ll ever exit the top 10 but one can hope : )

There is a light guiding my way
There is a light guiding my way
2 years ago
Reply to  Sir Stevia

Honestly it’s one of my least favourite Russia’s Eurovision entries, I’ve always found it pretty boring and thought it didn’t even deserve the final spot, even before I’ve found out she is a loyal Putin’s supporter. After I’ve found that out I realised the song is also hypocritical, and dragged it even lower, to my bottom 10.

Mi7503
Mi7503
2 years ago

Please unfollow this stupid brainless Polina. Hope she will be juged soon for her support and participation in war crimes. Go to hell !!!

Im so fab
Im so fab
2 years ago

I love you Latvia

Alvin
Alvin
2 years ago

What do Eurovision fans think about Westerners (from developed countries) supporting Ukraine and non-Westerners (from developing countries) supporting Russia?

You can see some internet users from certain parts of Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia overwhelmingly giving their supports to Russia. These internet users also hate the US (the West in general).

Alvin
Alvin
2 years ago
Reply to  Alvin

Also, these internet users from Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia adores strong, authoritarian leaders like Putin. Western leaders are deemed as too “liberal” and “weak” by these internet users.

Jo.
Jo.
2 years ago
Reply to  Alvin

Those “Internet users” often don’t represent most of the population of their respective countries. I believe most people are either neutral or at least against the aggression, unless they have been brainwashed or have political motivations.

Alvin
Alvin
2 years ago
Reply to  Jo.

Internet argument wars (regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine) took part in Quora Indonesia. Some siding with Ukraine, and some others siding with Russia. Those sided with Russia are called “brainless” and “illiterate” by those who sided with Ukraine. I stand with Ukraine and agree that all those pro-Russia Indonesians are either brainless or just pretty much a$$holes who acts like geopolitics experts. These wannabe geopolitics experts tries to act rational by saying that Zelensky (Ukrainian president) is a stupid comedian who knows nothing about geopolitics which triggers the invasion. An invasion on another country is still wrong. It doesn’t… Read more »

Last edited 2 years ago by Alvin
Steven
Steven
2 years ago
Reply to  Alvin

I genuinely dislike the use of terms “Westerners” and “non-Westerners.” Stop doing it.

Last edited 2 years ago by Steven
Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Alvin

They are sittning in troll factories in Saint Petersburg overwhelming internet with suspicion.

Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago
Reply to  Alvin

Can’t speak for everyone in SEA but as a Malaysian, I sympathize with Ukraine and I believe a lot of the people in my country do too (eventhough most won’t be able to tell why Ukraine and Russia are fighting in the first place). Ultimately, it doesn’t really matter what my country thinks about the conflict because we are an insignificant country when it comes to world affairs. The most we could do is to vote in favour of the resolution condemning Russia in the UN.

Last edited 2 years ago by Fast Food Music Lover
Jonkonfui
Jonkonfui
2 years ago

I cant understand why people can be so naive to believe singers really ‘feel’ what they sing.

Bella
Bella
2 years ago
Reply to  Jonkonfui

In the case of Polina she did not “feel” anything she was singing, for the simple reason she can’t even speak English. (That’s a general issue at Eurovision though, artists singing in English even though they obviously don’t speak it: Efendi, Julia Samoylova, Stefan, etc. to name a few).

OAN
OAN
2 years ago
Reply to  Bella

Yet Samoylova have some guts to stand against war.

Xxx
Xxx
2 years ago

Good! Good luck performing in Muchosranks for the rest of your lives.

Fatima
Fatima
2 years ago

The brilliant Oleksandra Nazarova and Maksym Nikitin just performed at the the World Figure Skating Championships to Jamala’s 1944. They got a huge standing ovation and easily qualified for tomorrow’s Ice Dance final.

Vivian
Vivian
2 years ago

I kinda wonder how Dina Garipova is doing, given she was there in 2013 with ‘What If’

Colin
Colin
2 years ago
Reply to  Vivian

Considering the ongoing situation, I can’t bring myself to actively listen to What If anymore, but I have to have in mind that song was there before the annexation (unlike AMV), and Dina herself hasn’t said anything. I’d like to know how she feels about this, but there hasn’t been anyhing from her before the networks were shut in Russia. I used to like her song back then, but now I find it sad. Dina’s opinion could sway my attitude towards it in one way or the other.

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  Colin

I always hated that song personally.

There is a light guiding my way
There is a light guiding my way
2 years ago
Reply to  Vivian

That was actually my 2d favourite Russia’s Eurovision song, now I’m not sure how to feel about it…. It’s still an extremely beautiful ballad to me but idk.
I just checked, Dina herself has been silent and continues to have concerts and TV appearances like nothing happened. Today was her birthday.

Eli
Eli
2 years ago

It’s funny how Russian propaganda in Eurovision is all about peace and love…oh the irony! Funny thing is, these 2 bitches had the audacity to sing about “Nobody hurt no one” and “A million voices”. Practise what you preach heathens.

Babes
Babes
2 years ago
Reply to  Eli

Well said!!!Thank you!

Eglutt
Eglutt
1 year ago
Reply to  Eli

yep, and the most xenophobic country in Europe really loves to boast how they are “fighting nazzis”

Pearli
Pearli
2 years ago

I knew that Russian beach’s tears in 2015 were crocodile tears and the fact that many fell for that performance is pathetic.

Nicomro
Nicomro
2 years ago
Reply to  Pearli

I’m ashamed i felt for it.. i thought she was genuine and was more like lazaref, obviously against putin, but “walking on eggs” to be able to pursue his career..
But back in 2015, i really thought gagarina was genuine.. now i m gutted and i ressent guilt to even wanted it to win.. (i’m french)

Janei
Janei
2 years ago

How dumb she must be to support Putin.. I hope that all those things that she supports will come back to her and to anyone who supports war. A million voices.. Pff, there are over 2 million of refugees in my country that have lost everything!

Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Janei

She is not dumb -,it is diminishing her intelligence. She knows what she is doing and is thus willingly supporting violence and evil.

Jack
Jack
2 years ago

That hypocrite sang a million voices and already more than a million people left their home because somebody decided to bomb a whole country. We are the choices we make, Polinas decision to support a dictator will hunt her for the rest of her life. And to anyone saying she had no choice, Sergey and Dima are the proof they CAN have a choice.

Nicomro
Nicomro
2 years ago
Reply to  Jack

Oh i knew about Sergey but what did Dima said ?? I would have sworn he was on putin’s side, i’m so happy !

Last edited 2 years ago by Nicomro
Alexander
Alexander
2 years ago
Reply to  Nicomro

I didn’t see any posts from Bilan about the war. He did repost, however, an older picture, where he says that it’s very important to love and support one’s native land and he was sure enthusiastic about inserting a lot of Russian there. So…

https://www.instagram.com/p/CawSn4jsc5x/

Cookie Nation
Cookie Nation
2 years ago
Reply to  Jack

Sergey has always been cold and critical to the Kremlin’s policies (as much as it is allowed for a person as well known in Russia as he is) and his Instagram account was shut down after protesting the war on day 1. Now he is just using Telegram. On the other hand Dima Bilan has always been a sucker for Putin and has even asked for tougher ideological control of Russian artists. They are like night and day actually.

Rantik
Rantik
2 years ago

We are the worst people
Different but we’re better
We believe
We believe in pootin

Hating peace and healing
I hope we can start WW3
We believe
We believe in Stalin

it’s disgusting but not surprised, she loves money

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  Rantik

Now these are honest lyrics for Polina’s song.

usain1
usain1
2 years ago

Has anyone heard anything new from Sergey Lazarov recently?

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  usain1

No, I really hope he’s ok!!!

Tzs
Tzs
2 years ago
Reply to  usain1

He cancelled His ig only

Cookie Nation
Cookie Nation
2 years ago
Reply to  usain1

He opposed the war on day one and his IG was closed the next day. His Facebook is still open but reduced to minimum activity. He’s only using Telegram now.

Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago

I wonder why Russia wasn’t banned in 2014 or 2015

Tzs
Tzs
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

EBU loved/loves Abba – money money money …i guess

Jesper Hjellnes
Jesper Hjellnes
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

EBU didn’t ban Russia immediately after the invasion, but it first happened when countries started saying they would withdraw from ESC 2022. They clearly wanted Russia in the contest for the money and for the viewing figures (Russia didn’t take part in ESC 2017 and the contest lost 22 million viewers compared to 2016)

Jonas
Jonas
2 years ago

They kicked them out a day later, after their first meeting about it. It all happened very quickly, even if it didn’t seem like it.

Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago

I think I’m getting downvoted
But I believe there is a slight possibility that Polina doesn’t support the war and was forced to be there

Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

Maybe. But she sure sang the hell out of her song during the event though.

Last edited 2 years ago by Fast Food Music Lover
Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

Of course she can refuse – like those Russians that risk everything and go to jail and protest. She is like an evil doll.

Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago
Reply to  Helene

She can’t refuse
Nobody can refuse in Russia
As to what I know

Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

Well I seen many that protested in the streets. Some that are afraid just hide. do you really think some of these people would have stood their with an z on the chest singing for Putin? She is supporting him. There is no excuse.

Erik2
Erik2
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

You can always get sick if you don’t want to do something.

Erik
Erik
2 years ago

Polina has not said anything about the war. We do not know what she thinks. But whatever she thinks, I will love “A Million Voices” anyway. I thought we have free speech

Matthew
Matthew
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

Not in Russia it seems. Those exercising their right to free speech, to criticise Putin, have been arrested.

NotPatrick
NotPatrick
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

Freedom of speech does not mean free of consequences

Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

There is no one saying that she cannot support dictatorships in a democracy. She has every right to support Stalin and who ever she likes. This is true in a democray, unlike Russia, where you cannot say whatever you like. But in a democracy you will also have to take the debate. One of the absolute worst thing with her, and some of the others in her league, is how they misuse the word peace when they support attacking innocent people. This have led me to become very suspicious when some Russians speak about “peace” and not use the word… Read more »

Last edited 2 years ago by Helene
Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

She openly supports the war and sang in that festival supporting the war
But a million voices is amazing

Paul
Paul
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

Hooray for free speech – but I’m not sure you can use that as a justification for supporting the killing of 1000s of people

Lalaland
Lalaland
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

She loves money. I can’t believe how naive you’re being.

Robert
Robert
2 years ago

….. We are the worst people….. Shocked by these people supporting a tiran! A million voices indeed Polina, dying because of your buddy Satan.. I mean Putin.. #Middlefinger

Erik
Erik
2 years ago
Reply to  Robert

We have free speech

Matthew
Matthew
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

They don’t in Russia.

NotPatrick
NotPatrick
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

free speech does not mean free of consequence

Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago
Reply to  Robert

Maybe they aren’t supporting but forced to be there

Poet
Poet
2 years ago
Reply to  Ffgsg

They don’t force you to post on social media pro-war posts. And that goes before this war.

Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago
Reply to  Poet

Come on its Russia we are talking about

Briekimchi
Briekimchi
2 years ago

I hated the song at the time and dislike it even more now.

Bella
Bella
2 years ago

Good, now hopefully the rest of Europe follows. Not that it would change much as I hadn’t heard about her since Eurovision 2015 anyway, but let her know how gross her behavior is.

Kaija
Kaija
2 years ago
Reply to  Bella

Germany should ban some Russian artists as well, as they perform there for the Russian diaspora very often.
Many of the Russian singers and other rich Russian people own properties in Latvia and have concerts there regularly, so this can hurt them very well.

Nils
Nils
2 years ago
Reply to  Kaija

I’m afraid, German politicians don’t even know about it. They’ve kind of banned more publicly known Putin supporters like Anna Netrebko, but as for Polina and the others, I guess they simply aren’t aware of them making any money in Germany at all. You’ve got to keep in mind the Russian diaspora in Germany is a lot smaller (in total percentage) than it is in the Baltic states and therefore Russian artists simply aren’t that visible publicly.
Nevertheless, you’re totally right.

Pancake
Pancake
2 years ago

Good for Latvia. Such a queen move.

Cheerio
Cheerio
2 years ago

Polinas 2015 entry is the most hypocritical entry up to date. Singing about peace while actively supporting a fascist who is murdering many and causing many to flee from their homes for their own safety?

Erik
Erik
2 years ago
Reply to  Cheerio

We have free speech

NotPatrick
NotPatrick
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

free speech does not mean free if consequence

Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

You do have free epeech but it’s not respected

Dawid
Dawid
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

You’re type of person who would defend Hitler after 1950

Matt
Matt
2 years ago
Reply to  Erik

Actually Polina Gagarina does not have free speech, she lives in Russia

She is just fortunate that her views are not out of sync with the ruling regime so they are protected

Last edited 2 years ago by Matt
Joe
Joe
2 years ago

Gonna spit on the ground anytime someone says Gagarina’s name

Joe
Joe
2 years ago
Reply to  Joe

Boggy’s song from the same year feels more relevant than ever

Nils
Nils
2 years ago
Reply to  Joe

And I’d still say it already was the far better one back then.

Joe
Joe
2 years ago
Reply to  Nils

Agreed. One of many slept-upon songs from that year (see also: Finland, Germany, Ireland, Montenegro, Norway, Portugal, Romania, and Slovenia).

Alex
Alex
2 years ago

Oh yes let’s all jump on someone for supporting a war by attending a stadium. But not Kalush Orchestra who physically join war effort and a dozen others singers. On top of that they are projected to win Eurovision. Supporting a war is still supporting a war.

Last edited 2 years ago by Alex
Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

So you’re saying Kalush Orchestra should just chill at their homes practicing for May while waiting to get shelled??

Alex
Alex
2 years ago

Not exactly, they should be pressuring their billionaire president to accept the bare minimum of one demand… so at least there can be a cease-fire, while negotiations continue. Peace is through negotiations, first step is stopping the fighting on both sides.

Last edited 2 years ago by Alex
Pandaman
Pandaman
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Oh yeah, so every time Put(a)in and his boys invade a country, said country should just immediately give them a piece of their land to end the war. What a great idea.

Benji
Benji
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

What about Russians who should be pressuring their billionaire president to stop behaving as a psycho instead of supporting him?

Last edited 2 years ago by Benji
Ffgsg
Ffgsg
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Oh yes! So Putin will cease fire just for kalush to perform! It’s that easy! OH wait

Are you insane?

Cookie Nation
Cookie Nation
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Strangers are coming, they come to your house, they kill you all and say: “we’re not guilty”.

Jimmy
Jimmy
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

There’s a world of difference between, on the one hand, supporting a needless invasion and war that has seen the targeting and murder of civilians and children; and, on the other, defending your home and the vulnerable from being ransacked and slaughtered.

Educate yourself, for goodness sake.

Last edited 2 years ago by Jimmy
Alex
Alex
2 years ago
Reply to  Jimmy

I know people only understand violence and think there is ONLY one answer. But in fact, there are so many other solutions. It’s sad to see BOTH sides supporting this brutal war by archaic thinking. Goodbye.

Joe
Joe
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Both-sidesing this is absolutely disgusting. Shame on you.

NickC
NickC
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

So, if NATO attacks Russia and demands siberia, will you gift wrap it?

Dawid
Dawid
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Yeah, because if someone rob your house and beat you up there’s no way to say who’s guilty because you were both involved. Like, go swallow some medications. Even if they hired you, because if you’re after that sweet ruble you’re clearly mentally chalanged.

Goodbye

Last edited 2 years ago by Dawid
Kaija
Kaija
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Kalush is not supporting the war, Kalush is defending their country and their people. They do not want war, but when strangers are coming, you don’t have many options but to defend yourself. Giving up and letting Putin’s regime overtake your country is not the best thing for Ukrainians. They have been occupied for decades in the past century and that did not do any good for the nation and their culture, they do not want that to repeat.

#synthsareawesome
#synthsareawesome
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Spoken like true centrist.

Vincenzo
Vincenzo
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Alex, probably you are Italian. I know many of my fellow compatriotes have a weakness or more than one for Putin and are currently troubled to see their idol is going nuts by invading and killing a people who widely speaks the same language and partially shares the same religion. So, just because you’re not ashamed of yourself, you pledge for Ukrainians to stay calm while such bastard dictator kills them. You are shame of Italy, shame of Europe, shame of the world, the galaxy, the universe and beyond. The inaction against another identical tyramn as Putin in 1939 has… Read more »

Lukas
Lukas
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Reading your comments, I hope that either you re-educate yourself again, or do not reproduce so you won’t pass down your stupidity to other generations

Dawid
Dawid
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Would love to hear you saying it straight to Ukrainians faces. Not from your mother’s basenent

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

OK NVM I think Alex just passed Doris in the dumbest comment on this site lmao. Yes let’s be upset at Kalush Orchestra for DEFENDING THEIR COUNTRY…makes total sense!

Frederic
Frederic
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

I can relate to what you say. Clearly many people here are upset by this comment. But really we should reflect on what are the limits of war. To be attacked by a foreign power is horrible of course. And responding to the attack is seen by many as an inspiring heroic gesture however it also means we find it is worth to sacrifice many current human lives in order to defend the territory and culture. It means we think that many current human deaths are less important than a concept. This is not just now. This has been the… Read more »

Helene
Helene
2 years ago
Reply to  Frederic

So if your house it attacked by a dictator that wants to force you to do as he like, with the consequence that you will loose your democratic rights and freedom of speech, you will just sit down and let him do that? You know that it will effect the future of at least a generations after you that will have to live in less freedom. I think the Ukrainians are brave.

Christian W
Christian W
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Defending is something else as attacking. The Kremlin however upvoted your bigoted little comment.

Roo
Roo
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

Ukrainians are not supporting a war they are defending their country from invasion. You sound like one of those teachers at school that punishes young boys for punching someone when the bully who provoked them gets away with it and goes off to taunt someone else

Erik2
Erik2
2 years ago
Reply to  Alex

There is a giant moral difference in being the invader (Russia) and the defender (Ucraine) of your own country

Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago

I was shocked when I saw that video of Polina Gagarina performing for the Crimea Annexation Anniversary on Youtube. I mean she was fierce (those vocals!), but I always assume she is all about peace and love especially since being introduced to her in Eurovision 2016.

Don’t judge a book by its cover, I guess.

Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago

*Eurovision 2015

Kaija
Kaija
2 years ago

Sadly, many minds are easy manipulated. Polina is one of them.

Roo
Roo
2 years ago

People like Polina are never about peace and love. They are about attention and admiration from others. Me! Me! Me!

58 Points (JE)
2 years ago

Natalya who?

Pandaman
Pandaman
2 years ago
Reply to  58 Points (JE)

She’s Belarusian, she represented Russia at Eurovision in 2005. Also I think it’s “Natalia”, not “Natalya”.

Clara
Clara
2 years ago
Reply to  Pandaman

Totally off topic, but there’s nigh infinite ways to transliterate Cyrillic, so both are quite correct 🙂

Alvin
Alvin
2 years ago

They should also ban those annoying “ura!!” supporters (pro-Russia internet users from Indonesia). It disgusts me how some of them blames Ukraine and the West on the Russian invasion of Ukraine just because Ukraine insisted on joining NATO. An invasion on another country is inexcusable no matter what reasons.

Last edited 2 years ago by Alvin
Alvin
Alvin
2 years ago
Reply to  Alvin

And of course Putin is still going to attend the G20 meeting in Bali. These “ura!!!” supporters will get even more annoying.

Tzs
Tzs
2 years ago

We are the worst people Different yet we’re the same
We believe
We believe in a dream
Praying for peace and healing
I hope we can start again
We believe
We believe in a dream

Doris
Doris
2 years ago

They should rather ban their awful song they choose this year. Like these russian people do care about Latvia.

Last edited 2 years ago by Doris
Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  Doris

I think this might be the dumbest comment I have seen on this site. Which says a lot.

Briekimchi
Briekimchi
2 years ago
Reply to  Sir Stevia

Look up above.Alex might have it beat.

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  Briekimchi

I just replied to Alex before seeing your reply to me LMAO. Yea they beat Doris haha.

Tzs
Tzs
2 years ago
Reply to  Doris

They always come or c*m to Riga so they care

Joe
Joe
2 years ago
Reply to  Doris

Crawl back into your hole.

Kaija
Kaija
2 years ago
Reply to  Doris

Oh h*ll they do – some of them own properties in Latvia (mostly in the resort town of Jurmala), Polina Gagarina goes there regularly to perform, some other names as well, but I do not recognize most of them.

Azuro
Azuro
2 years ago

Still don’t understand how she got so close to victory back then with such a gemeric ballad. Not only was it the year after crimea but it was 3rd time in a row russia had sent the peace guff

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago
Reply to  Azuro

I always wondered the same, but hey at least she didn’t bloody win.

Dawid
Dawid
2 years ago
Reply to  Azuro

Russia always had bazilion points from some countries. It’s like Sweden and North.

Paul
Paul
2 years ago
Reply to  Azuro

It should’ve been Beauty Never Lies!!

#pioneer
#pioneer
2 years ago
Reply to  Paul

Nope, Goodbye to yesterday or A monster like me should’ve been 2nd…

Colin
Colin
2 years ago

I already denounced A Million Voices over how hypocritical it sounds. I’d do the same with Nobody Hurt No One, but it’s already in my bottom 5 of 2005. I always hated how arrogant and preachy it sounds. Sure, USA has a huge gun problem that needs to be addressed, but the irony of being explicitly called out by Russia of all countries… Just FYI: I know that stating your opinion in these times can be tricky, especially in Russia. I wouldn’t ”cancel” anyone who stayed silent on the matter. I wouldn’t even cancel anyone who supported the president *before*… Read more »

aksel kankaanranta's husband
aksel kankaanranta's husband
2 years ago

Can anyone confirm what happened with Natalia? she shared a peaceful photo with the caption: ‘I want everything to be like before! When in 2005 there was Eurovision in Kyiv and chestnuts were blooming’ please spill the t

Sometimes
Sometimes
2 years ago

I applaud Latvia for that decision, i hope more countries will follow.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
2 years ago

Oh? But I thought she was already banned and cancelled across Eastern Europe? Hot take here: I don’t think banning or cancelling people who voice opinions that are at odds with Ukraine or somewhat supportive of Russia will go so far, as the Russian people and government will continue to pay them large sums of money. I translated Polina’s comment and it was still very ambiguous what she thought of Ukraine itself. If she’s carrying a gun and going to war is one thing but expressing an opinion is a different thing. One wonders what will happen to Russia and… Read more »

Sometimes
Sometimes
2 years ago

Supporting invasion of peaceful country is not a freedom of speech or a matter of “opinion”
its being part of terrorism
and if you support terrorism, be ready to pay the price for it

Colin
Colin
2 years ago

What she thinks of Ukraine is perhaps not *as bad* as her dictator does, but it’s sure ain’t a deal-breaker for her to actively support him, wear symbol Z, and sing at the concert justifying the invasion. I agree that in some cases, people nowadays tend to overreact, take silence as approval, twist someone’s words, and in many cases, bring decent people in problems. It’s especially prevalent in the West. However, we are talking about an active support of the war that killed so many children. Why would anyone respect her opinion?

Jimmy
Jimmy
2 years ago

Your last paragraph is really quite something. More like The Voice of Lunacy.

Last edited 2 years ago by Jimmy
Nils
Nils
2 years ago
Reply to  Jimmy

Everybody calling him- or herself ‘the voice of reason’ usually is a lonesome psychopath. I’ve noticed that multiple times by now.

Kaija
Kaija
2 years ago

It is called “war propaganda” and there are laws against it. These people break the law of Latvia, so they get banned. It is not the first time this happens, new people are blacklisted all the time (same like Philip Kirkorov is banned from entering Lithuania and Latvia).

Sir Stevia
Sir Stevia
2 years ago

:]

Last edited 2 years ago by Sir Stevia
Ron
Ron
2 years ago

It’s so funny that Polina shows support to Russia and Eurovision fans are quick to cancel her while Efendi was actively promoting violence and hate speech against Armenians and Eurovision fans went totally along with her. The double standard is disgusting.

Campbell Grace
Campbell Grace
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

This is the problem with the fandom. They mostly ignore Azerbaijan (and tbh Armenia has been guilty too but moreso Azerbaijan) being problematic because they send “bops” every year.

Ron
Ron
2 years ago
Reply to  Campbell Grace

They don’t ignore Azerbaijan. They pick and choose the causes they want to stand for based on what’s given to them by the popular media. And, EBU is in Azerbaijan’s pocket that’s for sure…

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

And now the hate for Armenia continues as Armenia try to pull their hands out of this political crisis, trying to get along with BOTH Europe and Russians like chads. They certainly didn’t fully agree/were not sure about the UN resolution regarding Ukraine.

Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

Yeah, it is pretty disgusting. Let’s hope that this will serve as a precedent for the future. I read about Efendi’s behavior during the Nagorno-Karabakh war through the comments here on Wiwibloggs, but since it didn’t receive a full coverage by any Eurovision fandom sites then I assume it’s just another allegation.

Joe
Joe
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

Jokes on you, I thought they were both miserable for years

Dawid
Dawid
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

Don’t generalise. I don’t like either one. Pooplina and Offendi.

Last edited 2 years ago by Dawid
Lolek
Lolek
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

To be fair, I think a lot of folks were simply unaware of Efendi’s comments about her support for the war in N-K. Personally I was very disappointed and disturbed with that (and I recall many here were), but I also know many just weren’t/aren’t aware of it, just as many weren’t/aren’t aware of, or understood the conflict in N-K. I think the geopolitical situation there is a little more complicated (not justifying of course, but I can sort of see why that passed a bit under the radar, so to speak). If anything, Mata Hari isn’t exactly a “peace”… Read more »

Last edited 2 years ago by Lolek
Ron
Ron
2 years ago
Reply to  Lolek

I disagree. We filed complaints with the EBU and got tens of thousands of signatures on a change.org petition. Both Eurovision fans and the EBU knew all too well and looked the other way with Efendi. There is virtually no difference between Russia, Belarus and Azerbaijan – they are all dictatorships run by ruthless individuals who have been in power for 30+ years and use Eurovision as a platform to advance their causes. There was a think-tank report last year about how Azerbaijan adopted a State policy to use Eurovision for it’s political means. Given prior statements by Jon “Corrupt”… Read more »

Sim
Sim
2 years ago
Reply to  Ron

exactly, exactly, exactly, thanks for noticing! She should have been banned and Azerbaijan should have been banned hundred times – btw, while Russia is invading Ukraine, Azerbaijan once again (oh my, how long…) violated border lines with Artsakh and killed civilians.

Campbell Grace
Campbell Grace
2 years ago

I’m glad Polina got booed at Eurovision 2015.

Anna
Anna
2 years ago
Reply to  Campbell Grace

Well of course she supports the war then when whole Europe booed her back then.

Last edited 2 years ago by Anna
Dawid
Dawid
2 years ago
Reply to  Anna

What was original comment? I mean before you changed it

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
2 years ago
Reply to  Campbell Grace

Of course the war was going on back then, but it was a very different climate.

Fast Food Music Lover
Fast Food Music Lover
2 years ago
Reply to  Campbell Grace

Did she though? They installed anti-boo technology during the show and the boos were mostly muted.

Jo.
Jo.
2 years ago

good! and a million farts at polina’s face

Jimmy
Jimmy
2 years ago
Reply to  Jo.

Save the gas for us! We will need it.

sam
sam
2 years ago

diana gurtskaya who represented georgia at eurovision 2008 with “peace will come” also supports putin. she is married to a russian millionaire and was part of a petition supporting the annexation of crimea in 2014. shame on her, and a shame i ever listened to her or polina’s songs.

Last edited 2 years ago by sam
Sometimes
Sometimes
2 years ago
Reply to  sam

Why its always the people who sing peace songs….

Azuro
Azuro
2 years ago
Reply to  sam

Does she really?

But the lyrics of the song, my land is slowly dying torn in half, is anti Russian surely???

Polegend Godnova
2 years ago
Reply to  Azuro

peace will come is from months before the russian attack on georgia which began in the summer after esc 2008. it’s no surprise she did this as she had also signed the petition in support of russia’s annexation of ukraine in 2014…