Ukraine’s embassy in Switzerland has called for the cancellation of scheduled performances by Russian opera singer Anna Netrebko at Zurich Opera, arguing the events send the wrong signal to democratic Europe. In an open letter published on 28 October, diplomats warned that culture can be used as a tool of influence amid Russia’s hybrid war against democracies. The statement stressed that public support for representatives of an aggressor state must be treated responsibly. The letter is available via the embassy’s website open letter by Ukraine’s embassy in Switzerland and was also reported by Ukrainian media Ukrainian media report
Broad public backing for the appeal
More than 90 public figures have supported the embassy’s appeal, including Swiss political leaders, Nobel laureates, Olympic champions, academics, historians, journalists and cultural personalities. The concerts are planned for 2, 7, 12, 15 and 18 November. The return of Netrebko to European stages has triggered protests and debate across several countries in recent years. Critics argue her performances may serve as instruments of influence amid Russia’s ongoing aggression.
Controversial record on Russia and Ukraine
Netrebko holds Russian and Austrian citizenship and previously backed President Vladimir Putin during Russia’s 2012 election. In 2014, she publicly supported the occupation and annexation of Crimea and later appeared in separatist-held Donetsk, where she was photographed with separatist leaders holding the so-called “Novorossiya” flag. After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, she issued a statement formally opposing the war but stopped short of clearly condemning Russia’s aggression. Many opera houses and concert halls in Europe and the United States subsequently cut ties with the artist.
Debate over culture and political responsibility
Despite sanctions and isolation, Netrebko has resumed performances in several countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Hungary and Slovakia, and now plans to appear in Switzerland. Critics say her success continues to be used by Moscow as part of its soft-power influence, highlighting the perceived greatness of Russian culture while the war continues. Supporters of the open letter argue that cultural institutions must consider the civic positions of those they invite, and that the arts cannot be detached from politics when figures have contributed to legitimising aggression.
A wider struggle over values
Opponents of Netrebko’s return see the case as a broader warning about how culture can become a battleground in geopolitical confrontation. They say overlooking political implications risks normalising influence efforts by an aggressor state. The embassy’s appeal frames the Zurich performances not only as a cultural decision but as a test of Europe’s awareness of ongoing conflict and the impact of cultural diplomacy.
