Kalush Orchestra Breaks Silence: Apologies Amid Controversy Over Donations to Ukrainian Defense Forces

Kalush Orchestra, the renowned winner of Eurovision 2022, has stepped into the spotlight again, not for their music, but for a recent controversy surrounding their alleged refusal to promote donations to the Ukrainian Defense Forces. This sparked a wave of criticism, prompting the band to address the situation publicly.

Kalush Orchestra's Apology and Clarification

The band took to their social media photoblog to apologize for the miscommunication and the negative emotions it brought. They emphasized their unwavering support for Ukraine throughout the ongoing conflict, with active involvement over the past three years. Reflecting on the outcry, Kalush Orchestra disclosed, "Yesterday we faced a lot of negativity about whether we donate. Spoiler: Yes, we do. Over 80 million UAH in the last three years, including our own contributions."

"We sincerely apologize. It's truly regrettable that our words created such a negative impact, " stated Kalush Orchestra.

A Legacy of Contribution

Kalush Orchestra detailed their collaborations with charitable foundations, supporting both military and civilian causes. They highlighted significant contributions, such as raising over 40 million UAH through the sale of their Eurovision trophy and hat, in partnership with the Serhiy Prytula Foundation, to procure PD-2 drones.

Continued Commitment

The band reiterated their ongoing commitment: "Yes, we support almost every direction of aid for the Defense Forces and civilians. This includes donations for medical kits, communication devices, drones, and vehicles, among other equipment. We also support the rehabilitation of wounded soldiers and prosthetics for those who have lost limbs."

This statement underscores Kalush Orchestra's deep connection to their homeland, recognizing the military's role in enabling their artistic pursuits and ensuring the safety of Ukrainian cities.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova