Green Day cancels Moscow concert over Ukraine invasion
‘We are aware that this moment is not about stadium rock shows, it’s much bigger than that,’ band said
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Green Day have cancelled their upcoming stadium concert in Moscow because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The rock band made the announcement on Sunday (27 February).
“With heavy hearts, in light of current events we feel it is necessary to cancel our upcoming show in Moscow at Spartak Stadium,” they wrote on Instagram.
“We are aware that this moment is not about stadium rock shows, it’s much bigger than that. But we also know that rock and roll is forever and we feel confident there will be a time and a place for us to return in the future. Refunds available at the point of purchase. Stay safe.”
On 24 February, Russia launched attacks on Ukraine. In a televised address, Russian president Vladimir Putin claimed that this was being done to “protect civilians in eastern Ukraine”. He also said that his goal of this invasion wasn’t to take over Ukraine but it was to “demilitarise it”.
On Sunday, Putin placed Russia’s nuclear deterrence forces on high alert, citing aggressive statements by Nato leaders and economic sanctions against Moscow.
Due to the conflict, other music artists including AJR and Oxxxymiron have also cancelled their concerts in Russia.
“We are sad to announce that we will be cancelling our upcoming show in Russia,” AJR wrote in a tweet on Friday (25 February). “Thank you to our Russian fans who oppose their country’s unprovoked and criminal behavior. Our hearts are with the people of Ukraine. At this point, the best thing you can do is share ACCURATE info.”
Russian rapper Oxxxymiron added that he can’t “perform while Russian missiles fall on Ukraine”.
“[I am] postponing six of my major gigs in Moscow and St Petersburg indefinitely,” he said in a video.
The hip-hop artist added that he’s “specifically against the war Russia has escalated against the people of Ukraine.”
Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music
Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)
Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music
Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)
“I think that this is a disaster and a crime,” he continued. “I’m sure you can understand me; I can’t entertain you while Russian missiles fall on Ukraine, while Kyiv residents are forced to hide in the basements and subway, and while people are dying.”
Follow the latest updates about the Russian invasion of Ukraine here.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments