Russian leader Vladimir Putin released a video message to mark the opening of the Academy of Creative Industries within the Tavrida art cluster. In the address, he warned that efforts to dismiss or erase Russian culture ultimately punish the very people behind those attempts. He underscored that culture and art serve as a unifying force, capable of bringing people together even in tense times, but he argued they have become a focal point in a wider geopolitical struggle. According to the president, certain forces are striving to wipe Russia from the broad tapestry of world civilization, erasing elements tied to its history and contributions.
Putin stated that when such voices form and press forward, they deprive their own populations of access to genuine masterpieces and living cultural experiences. He stated that this self-imposed deprivation harms the cultural landscape and diminishes the collective memory that connects nations across generations. The leader claimed that Russia, with deep respect for global cultural heritage, cannot tolerate or permit attempts to cancel or sideline its cultural legacy within the country.
The remarks came as part of a broader conversation about the role of culture in international relations and national identity. Putin emphasized that a nation’s creative output and artistic traditions are not merely historical artifacts; they are dynamic forces that energize society, shape values, and influence dialogue on the world stage. The message suggested that culture should be defended as a shared human treasure rather than weaponized in political clashes, and that efforts to reduce or silence it ultimately impoverish all who rely on it for inspiration and understanding.
In related cultural news, on May 13 a concert took place in the capital city of Italy, commemorating the birthdays of two renowned composers who share the same birth date: Pyotr Tchaikovsky and Johannes Brahms. The event highlighted the enduring connections between Russian and Western European musical traditions, underscoring how composers from different backgrounds contribute to a global heritage that transcends borders and political disputes. Observers noted that such performances reinforce the idea that art can foster cross-cultural appreciation even in times of tension, serving as a bridge that invites diverse audiences to engage with masterpieces that endure beyond generations.