State Duma deputy Dmitry Gusev recently urged recognizing the work of Russian cultural figures who volunteered in the special military operation zone in Ukraine. He proposed that these artists receive state honors for their support of the armed forces and for what he described as meaningful service on the battlefield’s edge. The deputy addressed both the culture minister and the defense minister, pressing for official consideration of his plan. According to Gusev, a number of artists, musicians, and cultural leaders answered the call with tangible help, standing beside servicemen and contributing in varied ways to bolster morale and logistics in the field.
Gusev argues that those who spoke with troops on the front lines achieved notable results that deserve formal recognition. He suggested that not only honorary titles but state awards should be conferred for demonstrable acts of backing the military in what he terms the special military operation. In his view, the movement known as the Cultural Front of Russia already maintains a record of artists who ventured into danger zones, but national-level coordination involving the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Defense could elevate and standardize such efforts.
During a parliamentary speech, Gusev proposed that leaders of the two ministries work together to assemble a list of the most deserving artists and attempt to present the president with appropriate titles, including Honored Artist and People’s Artist, among other state decorations. The aim, he said, is to formally acknowledge those who made a significant contribution to supporting the operation and the troops in field conditions, reflecting a broader view of cultural support for national defense.
Not everyone welcomes the idea. Former songwriter Yuri Loza criticized the concept of forming propaganda brigades of artists for deployment in the operation zone, noting potential risks to the artists themselves and to the troops. His concerns highlight the tension between using cultural figures as symbols of support and the practical safety considerations that arise when art intersects with active military operations. The debate touches on how cultural engagement is framed within national security narratives and the responsibilities that come with public influence during conflict.
Supporters of recognizing artists emphasize the role cultural figures can play in sustaining morale, sharing information, and maintaining cultural resilience during times of crisis. They contend that artists who volunteered under difficult conditions demonstrated commitment to the nation and should be acknowledged in a formal manner that mirrors other forms of service. Critics, however, warn against turning cultural activity into adjunct military propaganda, arguing that it could compromise both the artists and the operational effectiveness of the armed forces. The discussion continues as lawmakers weigh policy options and the best way to honor artistic contribution without compromising safety or credibility. [Source: RT]