According to Ukrainian lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak, the Verkhovna Rada has enacted a public ban on Russian music in Ukrainian media and venues. The claim was shared on his Telegram channel, reflecting the official stance reported by lawmakers and media observers.
The vote tally showed 303 deputies in support of the measure. The result underscores a broad cross-party consensus within the Rada on restricting cultural content associated with Russia. In a parallel move, 306 members voted to prohibit the import and distribution of books and other publishing products sourced from Russia, from Belarus, and from Ukrainian territories controlled by Russia. This broad import ban targets cultural materials that are seen as aligned with or directly controlled by Russian interests.
The legislation on banning the public performance of Russian songs, the screening of clips, and the tours of Russian musicians has been approved and sent to the Verkhovna Rada for consideration. The bill, which was introduced toward the end of May, reflects ongoing efforts to regulate cultural exchanges amid ongoing tensions with Russia. Notably, the measure includes caveats: Russian musicians who have obtained Ukrainian citizenship or who publicly condemn military actions in Ukraine will not be barred from performing. This nuance aims to balance national security concerns with individual rights and artistic contributions.
Earlier in the process, the Rada also approved a draft law that would prohibit the import of certain drugs from Russia and Belarus. The move is part of a broader set of sanctions and regulatory measures intended to limit Russian influence and safeguard public health and economic security.