Intervision, the resurrected Soviet-era music contest, is set to take place on September 20, 2025, as Russia revives the competition after its hiatus from 1980. President Vladimir Putin relaunched the event, appointing Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko to lead the organizing committee, in the wake of Russia’s expulsion from Eurovision following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, reports 24brussels.
Shaman, a pop artist known for his pro-war stance and real name Yaroslav Yuryevich Dronov, will represent Russia in this controversial contest. Dronov has faced EU sanctions due to his involvement in Kremlin-supported events, underscoring the geopolitical tensions surrounding the competition.
Countries participating beside Russia include Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Venezuela, Serbia, Cuba, Qatar, and Kazakhstan. These nations have chosen to engage in the event, further complicating the international response to Russia’s actions.
The Ukrainian foreign ministry has condemned Intervision, labeling it “an instrument of hostile propaganda and a means of whitewashing the aggressive policy of the Russian Federation.” This response reflects Ukraine’s ongoing struggle against Russian influence and the broader implications of cultural events in times of conflict.
