Russian singers Nikolai Baskov and Philip Kirkorov have been stripped of the title "People's Artist of Ukraine" by a decree from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This information was reported on the official website of Zelensky's administration.
Additionally, the title of "People's Artist of Ukraine" has also been revoked from Russian singer Alexander Malinin and composer Igor Krutoy. Zelensky has further rescinded the status of Honored Artists of Ukraine for singers Ani Lorak and Taisiya Povaliy, who were born in Ukraine and gained fame in Russia.
In total, Zelensky's decree annulled various state awards and honors previously granted to 34 individuals. This group included former Ukrainian officials, deputies, artists, religious figures, and lawyers.
Earlier, Kirkorov's press secretary described the legal actions against the singer due to over 30 unpaid fines for traffic violations as a mistake.