The Latvian singer Vaikule recently spoke about her stance on the ongoing conflict and her distance from many Russian colleagues. In a candid exchange on her YouTube channel, she explained that her decision to limit contact stems from a difference in views surrounding the military action now occurring in Ukraine. Vaikule stated her support for Ukraine in this matter and emphasized that personal relationships with colleagues must be weighed against broader political realities.
She described the current climate as challenging for those who share close ties with people on the opposite side of the line. In her words, she has not maintained contact with some Russian artists, and she recognizes how difficult that can be for those who value language and friendship across borders. The artist reflected on the common question from fans and peers: when will friendships be possible again? She noted that such bonds are rare and fragile, especially when national circumstances change dramatically.
Vaikule also commented on the emotional toll of the conflict, calling the military operation a great tragedy. She said that the human cost of war weighs heavily on everyone involved, including those she might have collaborated with in the past. Her stance reflects a broader duty she feels as a public figure to advocate for peace and to acknowledge the suffering experienced by people caught in the middle of hostilities.
In a recent festival planning decision, Vaikule highlighted the importance of cultural exchange as a form of soft diplomacy. She described organizing a major festival that included a substantial lineup of Ukrainian artists as a meaningful gesture of solidarity. The event, which brought together performers from different backgrounds, underscored her belief that art can serve as a bridge even when political tensions run high. She expressed that supporting artists from Ukraine was driven by a sense of compassion for those facing displacement and danger, and by a commitment to sustaining cultural dialogue despite ongoing conflicts. The broader message was that music can offer comfort and resilience during difficult times, while still respecting the diverse opinions within the international music community.
The Laima Rendezvous Jūrmala festival took place over several days at a prominent venue in Jurmala, drawing attention from fans and media alike for its diverse program and high-profile performances. Among the performers were well-known artists such as Verka Serduchka, Max Barskikh, and Alekseev, who brought their distinctive styles to the stage. The red carpet event featured a notable moment when Maria Maksakova posed alongside Vaikule, underscoring the festival’s appeal as a gathering point for artists across generations and regions. These appearances underscored the event’s role as a platform for cultural celebration even amid geopolitical tensions. The festival’s program and its guests were treated as a testament to the resilience of the arts scene in sharing human stories through song and spectacle. [Citation: Festival organizers and artist interviews]
In statements prior to this festival, Vaikule had already made clear that she did not intend to visit Russia in the foreseeable future. Her remarks reflected a consistent stance that aligns with a broader cultural and political shift seen among several artists who are choosing to distance themselves from certain collaborations while continuing to engage with audiences worldwide. This approach highlights the evolving dynamics of artistic communities navigating political fault lines without abandoning the shared goal of creating meaningful music and cultural exchange. [Citation: Public statements and recorded interviews]