Despite the conflict with Russia: Ukraine has a new candidate for Eurovision | Eurovision Songfestival

Last Saturday, Videbir, the national song festival of Ukraine was held. Then the Kalush Orchestra finished second with their song “Stefania”† The rap group received the most points from the audience, but came only third on the jury. Which left Alina Bash with the win.

Her participation came under pressure because she was allegedly in Crimea – the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014 – in 2015. According to the rules of broadcasters NTU and UA:PBC, Ukrainian song contest artists may not have been to Crimea since the annexation. Bash is said to have forged travel documents for this purpose. Because of all the fuss, the singer decided to withdraw. “I don’t want or hate this virtual war,” she said on Instagram.

At the moment, the possible stay of Bash in the Crimea is somewhat more sensitive. Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of two regions in eastern Ukraine: Luhansk and Donetsk. Putin also sent Russian forces to the region. This could be a harbinger of a wider invasion. The Russian president himself talks about “peace forces”, but according to Ukraine – and the rest of the world – that seems unlikely.

The Kalush Orchestra can still defend their country’s honor at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest in Turin. “Finally it’s time,” the group wrote on Instagram. We are ready to lead Ukraine to success. We see and feel the support of you, our audience. It is a great honor for us to represent our country. We promise to do our best and not fail.”

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