Eurovision Bans Ukrainian President Zelensky from Addressing Contest Audience

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's request to address the Eurovision Song Contest final in Liverpool has been denied by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) due to the nonpolitical nature of the event. The EBU has taken steps to ensure Ukrainian music and culture feature prominently throughout the live final and semifinal events, which are being hosted by the BBC on behalf of Ukraine's public broadcaster. The decision reflects concern that the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year's contest would bring the competition into disrepute.