Famous opera singer’s shows cancelled over pro-Putin links | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleAlvise ArmelliniFriday 07 November 2025 18:05 GMTPutin unveils Russia's new nuclear powered missile cruiser Khabarovskowered Missile Cruiser KhabarovskAn Italian opera house cancelled performances by Russian bass Ildar Abdrazakov due to his perceived closeness to President Vladimir Putin.Abdrazakov was scheduled to perform in Mozart's "Don Giovanni" at the Verona Philharmonic Theatre from 18 to 25 January.The cancellation followed calls from Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which highlighted Abdrazakov's support for Putin.Italy's Culture Minister, Alessandro Giuli, welcomed the decision, stating that Russian art is not welcome when it serves as a propaganda tool for a despotic power.Abdrazakov received a prestigious state award from Putin last year and holds positions on the presidential council for culture and arts, and as head of the Sevastopol Opera and Ballet Theatre in Crimea.In fullOpera house praised for canceling singer with links to PutinThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in