Why Performing in russia Is a Grave Mistake
As russia’s war against Ukraine rages on, an artist’s decision to perform in the country sparks heated debate. Such actions aren’t just controversial—they carry profound moral, political, and economic consequences. This article explains why performing in russia is not only a bad idea but a choice with devastating ripple effects, from propping up a brutal regime to bankrolling the war and being exploited by propaganda. We’ll also address why ordinary russians share responsibility for the conflict and why artists must steer clear of russia if they value freedom and justice.
Normalizing a War-Waging Regime
When an artist takes the stage in russia, they unintentionally lend credibility to a regime that’s waging an unprovoked war against Ukraine. Concerts and cultural events are spun by russian state media as proof that the country remains a respected part of the global community, despite its atrocities. To audiences abroad, this can create a false sense that “things aren’t that bad,” when in reality, russia is violating international law, bombing civilians, and annexing sovereign territory.
A performance in moscow or st. petersburg hands russian propagandists a golden opportunity to claim, “Look, global stars are with us—our isolation is a myth.” This helps the regime mask its war crimes behind a façade of cultural normalcy. For Ukrainians enduring daily attacks, such actions feel like a betrayal, as artists effectively normalize a regime committing atrocities.
Funding the War Machine
Every concert in russia is more than a cultural event—it’s a financial transaction. Artists earn fees, and organizers pay taxes to the russian government, which funnels money into the war against Ukraine. Even with sanctions in place, russia’s economy relies on domestic revenue, including from cultural events. Every ticket sold contributes to the system that funds weapons, tanks, and salaries for soldiers fighting in Ukraine.
Beyond direct taxes, artists performing in russia boost the local economy—think ticket sales, hotel bookings, and transportation. These funds, however small they seem, feed into a system that sustains russia’s aggression. For those unfamiliar with the war’s scale, consider this: every dollar spent in russia indirectly supports the destruction of Ukrainian cities and the killing of innocent people.
Becoming a Propaganda Tool
russia’s propaganda machine eagerly exploits the presence of foreign artists to push the narrative of international support. When an artist performs in russia, their name, image, or performance footage can be twisted to suggest they endorse the regime’s actions. Even if an artist claims they’re “just performing for the people, not politics,” russian media will ignore this and frame the event as a win for their ideology.
For example, state-controlled outlets often highlight Western artists’ visits to portray russia as culturally vibrant and globally accepted. This not only misleads international audiences but also demoralizes Ukrainians, who see their struggle sidelined for the sake of entertainment. For those outside the region, the key takeaway is clear: there’s no neutral stage in russia. Every performance is a political act, whether the artist intends it or not.
The Collective Responsibility of russians
It’s critical to understand that every russian citizen bears some responsibility for the war in Ukraine. Through taxes, they fund the military invading Ukraine. Many voluntarily enlist, picking up weapons and entering Ukrainian territory as occupiers. Even those who don’t fight often enable the war through silence or indifference, allowing the regime to operate unchecked.
While some russians oppose the war, their numbers are small, and their influence is stifled by repression. The majority either support the Kremlin’s policies or claim “it’s not my war,” dodging accountability. Yet their taxes pay for the missiles raining down on Ukrainian cities. Volunteers who join the army do so willingly, fully aware they’re fighting a sovereign nation. For international readers, the point is simple: whether active or passive, russian society props up the war machine.
Additional Reasons: Moral and Reputational Risks
Beyond these core issues, performing in russia carries other serious consequences. First, there’s a moral dilemma. Taking the stage in a country committing war crimes contradicts basic principles of humanity and solidarity. By performing in russia, artists turn a blind eye to the suffering of Ukrainians whose homes, families, and futures are being destroyed.
Second, such performances can ruin an artist’s reputation. In today’s interconnected world, fans and activists quickly learn about controversial decisions. Boycotts, public backlash, and eroded trust can derail a career. Many artists who performed in russia after 2014 faced sharp criticism and lost fans in Ukraine and beyond.
Finally, artists who perform in russia miss a chance to be a force for good. Culture has the power to shape opinions, and artists can use their platform to spotlight injustice. By choosing profit over principle, they squander the opportunity to stand with those fighting for freedom.
Performing in russia isn’t just a gig—it’s a choice with far-reaching consequences. It lends legitimacy to a criminal regime, fuels the war against Ukraine, and hands propaganda a powerful tool. Every russian, through taxes or voluntary participation, supports the aggression. For artists who care about their reputation, moral integrity, and global impact, performing in russia is not just a mistake—it’s a betrayal of those fighting for justice. As Ukraine battles for its survival, an artist’s choice matters. And that choice should never side with the aggressor.
