Potap trolls petition by offering to swap 'Honored Artist' for 'People's Artist'
On August 31, 2026, Potap responded ironically to a petition calling for him to be stripped of the title “Honored Artist of Ukraine.” The petition had been posted on the presidential office website on August 28 by Kateryna Taran. It cites his work with the Russian entertainment industry, his promotion of Russian-language content, and actions that could be viewed as devaluing the Ukrainian language.
By the time of publication, the petition had gathered more than 15,000 signatures out of the 25,000 needed for official review. Potap said he was ready to voluntarily hand back his “Honored Artist of Ukraine” title in exchange for the “People's Artist of Ukraine” title. Commenting on the situation, he said:
“I see the country has already solved all its problems. The most important thing left is to take away Potap's title of Honored Artist of Ukraine.”
Roman Vybranovskyi also left a comment about the petition. It is still unclear how the situation will end.
Public reactions
The episode underscores tensions in Ukrainian society over cultural identity and language, especially amid the war and strained relations with Russia. The petition, which has already collected a significant number of signatures, shows that the public is actively responding to public figures' actions that could be perceived as compromising national values. Potap's replies suggest he is trying to keep a light tone, even though the situation could have serious consequences for his career and reputation. This is the latest flashpoint in Ukraine's broader debate over how to treat cultural figures with ties to Russia.