A planned concert in Moldova's capital Chisinau has ignited heated debates on social media targeting an actress known for her anti-Russian stance. Russian actress Liya Akhedzhakova is set to perform on October 13 at the Chisinau Opera and Ballet Theatre in the play 'Vedi svoi plug po kostyam mertvetsov'. Ticket prices range from $30 to $85.
Social Media Storm
The social media page announcing the concert was flooded with hundreds of negative comments. Many Moldovan users reacted by saying, 'There is no place for such artists in our country.' The term 'traitor' was frequently used for Akhedzhakova in the comments.
One user wrote, 'Why does Chisinau host anyone and everyone? It has become a safe haven for traitors.' Another commented, 'Only traitors of their own homeland (Russia) visit our country! There's no room for normal people.'
Ukrainians Invite, Moldovans Refuse
About half of the comments were written in Ukrainian. Ukrainian social media users urged Akhedzhakova to perform in Dnipro, Kharkiv, Lviv, and Kyiv. In response, Moldovan users retorted, 'If Ukrainians want her, they should host her in Ukraine. We don't need her in Chisinau.'
Financial Hardship Claims
Some commenters attributed Akhedzhakova's visit to Chisinau to financial difficulties. Claims surfaced such as 'The road to Russia is closed; she's used to spending and living large' and 'When an artist becomes useless, they immediately head to Chisinau.'
Culture Ministry List and Past Incident
In June, the Moldovan Culture Ministry published a list of predominantly Russian artists who were not recommended to perform in the country. It is unknown whether Akhedzhakova is on that list or if she has obtained permission for the show.
The actress has repeatedly opposed Russia's military operation in Ukraine. In September 2023, after she appeared on stage with a Ukrainian flag at a concert in Bremen, Germany, the Moscow Interior Ministry launched an investigation. Akhedzhakova dismissed the incident as a 'provocation,' claiming the flag was handed to her by a spectator.