Peter Gabriel has joined a lengthening list of performers who have cancelled tour dates in Ukraine due to the tense political situation in Kiev. Depeche Mode, Yanni, Aerosmith, The National and metal act Children of Bodom have all cancelled dates in the Ukrainian capitol as well.
Clashes between citizens and security forces began earlier this year, resulting in the resignation of president Viktor Yanukovych. Russia took advantage of the uproar and invaded Crimea to defend the Russian-speaking citizenry of the region against violence, or so it claims. Nothing is certain at the moment, and musicians aren't going to get wrapped up in it.
Gabriel's management has promised full refunds for ticket holders, but no potential rescheduling has been mentioned. The performer made up for his cancellation by offering copies of his "Back to Front" tour DVD. Most of the acts mentioned above have yet to suggest a new tour date, although Aerosmith has merely listed its date as "postponed" (until further notice).
More interesting in The National's choice to also cancel its shows in St. Petersburg and Moscow, cities that aren't undergoing any messy power transactions. Much of the Western world has opposed Russia's movements into Ukraine as military aggression, leading to sanctions against certain individuals by the U.S. government. Gabriel didn't have any Russian shows scheduled to begin with, but it seems The National are showing disapproval for Russian actions as well.
Hopefully Ukraine can return to a relatively calm state soon...and not just so that Peter Gabriel can stop by.
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