Suspilne Clears Eurovision Finalist Valeriya Fors Over Russian Producer Ties.

Suspilne's Statement on Valeriya Fors's Collaboration

According to TSN.ua: Suspilne, Ukraine's public broadcaster, has addressed concerns regarding a potential collaboration between national selection finalist Valeriya Fors and Russian sound producer D.Woo. The competition organizers have confirmed that the artist has not broken any rules, clarifying that this collaboration is unrelated to her Eurovision entry song.

Valeriya Fors, whose real name is Valeriya Simulyk, may have worked with D.Woo in 2024. Her official sound producer is Vinny Venditto. Under the current national selection rules, artists who have performed in the territory of the aggressor state after March 15, 2014, are barred from participating. The organizers have verified that none of the participants in the 2026 National Selection have violated this specific regulation. This rule is a direct consequence of Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and ongoing aggression against Ukraine.

Finalists' Songs Now Available

The songs of all finalists for the Eurovision 2026 national selection are now available on digital streaming platforms. The artists will compete in a live final on February 7, 2024, for the chance to represent Ukraine at the international song contest.

The situation highlights the strict ethical guidelines governing Ukrainian artists' participation in international events. While collaborations with individuals from the aggressor nation naturally raise public scrutiny, the organizers' confirmation underscores a rigorous vetting process to ensure all participants comply with the established legal and ethical framework, supporting Ukrainian artists within these boundaries.