Controversial Duo Anna Maria to Perform in Kyiv on Constitution Day

Anna Maria Duo Set to Perform at Constitution Day Celebrations

According to Главком: On June 28, Kyiv will host a performance by the Anna Maria duo-twin sisters Anna and Maria Opanasiuk-as part of the Constitution Day festivities. The concert is scheduled at the Weekend Park venue in Mezhyhiria. The duo rose to fame after winning the TV project 'Chance' and becoming finalists in Ukraine's National Selection for Eurovision 2019. They are also known for writing the hit song 'Buty Shchaslyvymy' (To Be Happy).

Controversial Statements and Public Reactions

The Opanasiuk sisters have sparked debate with their past comments on the annexation of Crimea and the war in Ukraine. In interviews, they claimed there had been no war in Ukraine since 2014, describing it instead as an 'Anti-Terrorist Operation' (ATO), and insisted they should not be asked about politics since they are musicians. When pressed on Crimea's status, they offered no clear answer but stated:

'Crimea is ours, it is our home; now there are two borders, Ukraine simply lost Crimea'

.

In 2019, the duo performed in Russia at the 'New Wave' festival in Sochi. Following the full-scale invasion, the sisters began supporting Ukrainian troops and traveling to the front lines. Social media reactions to the concert announcement have been mixed. Some commenters expressed discontent, asking:

• 'Constitution Day and Anna Maria. Is cancel culture no longer a thing? Did everyone forget?'
• 'This is surreal-how cynical and quick was their turnaround?'

The Opanasiuk sisters come from a complicated family background. Their mother, Larysa Opanasiuk, served as Vice Prime Minister in the Russia-controlled government of Sergei Aksyonov from 2019 to 2023, and died on October 5, 2023, at age 60. Their father, Oleksandr Opanasiuk, was a judge who headed the Central District Court of Simferopol and in 2014 switched to serving Russia, becoming a judge on the Supreme Court of Crimea.

Given this context and public sentiment, the duo's Constitution Day performance has ignited intense discussion. Users have voiced opinions, noting that

'They once passed the national selection for Eurovision when Russia had already taken Crimea from us'

. At the same time, the duo remains popular in Ukraine, continuing their musical work and supporting Ukrainian soldiers.

The Anna Maria duo's performance at the Constitution Day celebration has become a focal point of societal debate, highlighting the controversial nature of their political stance. This reflects how the public continues to scrutinize the actions of public figures, especially in light of their past statements and behaviors regarding the war and the annexation of Crimea. Despite this, the duo strives to maintain their popularity and pursue their creative work, which continues to draw mixed reactions from listeners.

As the Anna Maria duo prepares for their performance, it's worth noting the recent reunion of another popular pair in the Ukrainian music scene. After a seven-year hiatus, Potap and Nastya Kamenskikh have rejoined forces, captivating fans with their nostalgic return. This development highlights the dynamic nature of the Ukrainian music industry, especially in a time of national reflection and celebration.