Veteran Italian singer Pupo is set to
perform in a charity concert at the Kremlin on Friday along with
a number of Russian artists, as war continues to rage in Ukraine
after Moscow invaded its neighbour two years ago.
The 68-year-old, who arrived in Moscow on Tuesday, told ANSA
that he was taking part in the event because he wants to send a
"message of dialogue" about the need to end "this intolerable
war, this blood feud between Ukrainian and Russian brothers".
The pop star, who is highly popular in Russia after visiting it
regularly since 1978, stressed that he was taking part in the
concert for free.
"I'm willing to go to Kyiv too, but the Ukrainians said I can't
go there if I go to Russia," he said.
"The Russians did not make this condition".
Last year he pulled out of the Road to Yalta war-song festival
in Crimea after his planned participation attracted flak.
The performance at the Kremlin event has also triggered
criticism but he is undeterred this time.
"People are free to think what they like about what I do," he
said.
"I don't accept orders, I am a conservative anarchist.
"With this character I might not fit in well in Russia, it's
better to be in the West. I'm not a good person, but I'm loyal,
and I can't stand hypocrisy."
His visit comes after the actress Ornella Muti and street artist
Jorit recently took part in events in Sochi, with the latter
getting to talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin and take a
photo with him.
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