Gratitude Concert on Invasion Anniversary Canceled After Headliner Withdraws.

Controversy Surrounds 'Born to Be Free' Gratitude Concert

According to TSN.ua: A planned 'Born to Be Free' concert of gratitude at Kyiv's Sports Palace on February 24, 2026, has sparked public backlash due to its unfortunate scheduling. The date marks the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a choice that has drawn significant criticism and outrage from many citizens.

Performers and Public Backlash

The concert had announced a lineup of Ukrainian stars, including:

• Zlata Ognevich
• alyona alyona
• Mila Nitich
• Parfeniuk
• Motor'Rolla
• Roksolana
• Dava

However, the prominent band 'Zhadan i Sobaky' (Zhadan and Dogs) has publicly refused to perform at the event.

As frontman Serhiy Zhadan stated: 'Zhadan and Dogs will not be playing at the Kyiv Sports Palace on 24.02. We consider participation in the event to be inappropriate.'

Ticket sales for the concert have now been suspended. Meanwhile, rapper alyona alyona clarified that the 'gratitude performance is being organized by the military, which is why so many artists agreed to take part.' This indicates that, despite the controversy, support from other performers remains, albeit under contentious circumstances. In Ukraine, cultural events often serve dual purposes of morale and fundraising, making such scheduling decisions particularly sensitive.

While the 'Born to Be Free' concert aims to express thanks and support, the choice of date and its painful context have provoked mixed reactions within society. This situation highlights the difficult balance between patriotic initiatives and respect for national trauma. The anniversary date underscores the deeply emotional context for any public event and is likely to fuel further debate about the appropriateness of celebrations on such solemn days. Organizers and participants must carefully consider these factors to avoid further controversy and maintain public support.