Concert by Putin ally Gergiev cancelled in Italy
Summary
A music festival in Italy cancelled a concert by Russian conductor Valery Gergiev, known as a supporter of President Putin, after receiving criticism from human rights groups and Ukrainian officials. Gergiev was supposed to conduct an orchestra at an event near Naples, but the organizers decided to call it off due to backlash over his ties to Russia, amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.Key Facts
- A music festival in Italy called off a concert featuring Russian conductor Valery Gergiev.
- Gergiev is an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- The concert was planned to happen at a former royal palace near Naples.
- Gergiev has not performed in Western countries since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
- Ukraine's government urged the cancellation, calling Gergiev "Putin's mouthpiece."
- Other Western venues had previously severed ties with Gergiev due to his stance on the Ukraine war.
- Italy's culture minister said the cancellation protected the "values of the free world."
- The cancellation happened as Italy hosted meetings to support Ukraine during the war.
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