Concert by Putin ally Gergiev cancelled in Italy

The article reports the cancellation of a concert by Valery Gergiev, a Russian conductor known for his close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, in Italy. Gergiev has been banned from performing in Western countries since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, with many cultural institutions and organizations distancing themselves from him due to his support for Putin's actions. The concert, which was scheduled to take place in Milan, was cancelled by the organizers after Gergiev failed to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This decision is part of a broader trend of cultural boycotts and sanctions targeting Russian artists and cultural figures who have not denounced the war. The article highlights the growing impact of the Ukraine conflict on the cultural sphere, as institutions and audiences increasingly refuse to engage with artists seen as aligned with the Russian government. This reflects the broader geopolitical tensions and the effort to hold Russia accountable for its actions through various means, including cultural and economic isolation.