Oleh Vynnyk called on people to “forgive and love” enemies at a concert in Germany
Ukrainian singer Oleh Vynnyk delivered an emotional speech during his concert in Germany, in which he called on people to “forgive and love” even those whom many Ukrainians consider enemies.
The artist admitted that he understands how painful the experiences people have gone through are, but in his opinion, it is difficult to move forward without mutual forgiveness.
After these words, he addressed the audience with a message about the need for peace and an end to the war.
From the stage, Vynnyk stated: “I know it’s hard, I know it hurts, but we must forgive each other.” He emphasized that, in his view, “it’s great to love one another,” and that love—not hatred—should become the foundation of the future.
Concluding his speech, the singer wished, “May God grant us peace,” and immediately afterward moved on to the musical part of the performance.
Particular attention was drawn to the fact that after his calls for forgiveness, Vynnyk performed a song in Russian. In the context of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine and the active derussification of public space in Ukraine, many audience members perceived this step as inappropriate.
Some social media users noted that the use of the Russian language on stage immediately after words about “love for enemies” looked especially provocative to them.
