Putin Revives Intervision as Western Cultural Counter

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the revival of the Intervision Song Contest, a Soviet-era alternative to Eurovision, aiming to promote traditional family values and counter Western cultural influence. This comes after Russia's exclusion from Eurovision in 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine. The Intervision contest, planned for Moscow, will involve countries such as China, Cuba, and several former Soviet republics, with over 25 nations reportedly expressing interest. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and domestic policy chief Sergei Kiriyenko have been appointed to lead the event's organization. The contest emphasizes non-political, culturally respectful performances and prohibits songs promoting violence or dishonoring societal dignity. This initiative is part of Russia's broader strategy to establish alternatives to Western cultural events amid ongoing international isolation.