The Controversy Surrounding Valeriya Simulik
Ukrainian singer Valeriya Simulik, who performs as Valeriya Force, is under scrutiny following allegations of collaboration with Russian sound engineer D.Woo. Blogger Bohdan Bespalov made these claims public. D.Woo resides in Russia, which has sparked outrage among her fans given the ongoing war in Ukraine. This incident highlights the intense pressure on Ukrainian artists to sever all professional ties with Russia.
Simulik has confirmed she previously worked under the stage name Vesta. In a statement, she clarified that from 2023 to 2024, she operated under that name as part of a producer-led project. The singer asserted that decisions regarding digital promotion, distribution, mixing, and mastering were made by the producer and fell outside her area of responsibility.
"My responsibility was exclusively the creative part. I did not work in russia, the aggressor country, and did not release music for that market." - Valeriya Simulik
The Vesta project was terminated at the end of 2024, and since 2025, Valeriya Simulik has worked solely as Valeriya Force. Suspicion was further fueled in 2024 when D.Woo mentioned Simulik's account in his social media stories, raising questions about potential cooperation with Russian producers. It is worth noting that the final of Ukraine's national selection for Eurovision 2026 will be held on February 7, 2026, with the finalists' draw taking place on January 15 of the same year.
Public Reaction and Potential Fallout
Consequently, the situation involving Valeriya Simulik and her former alias Vesta continues to generate debate in the media and among the public. The singer maintains her independence from the Russian market and vows to continue her career under her new name.
The allegations against Valeriya Force and her connection to Russian producer D.Woo underscore the fraught nature of cultural ties during wartime. As many Ukrainian artists strive to distance themselves from the Russian market entirely, such suspicions can carry significant career consequences. Despite her assurances, public opinion and fan reaction may profoundly impact her future in the music industry.