Andrei Danilko, better known as Werka Serdjutschka, is facing a new challenge: the Ukrainian authorities have banned the artist from leaving the country for private performances. A travel permit is only possible under strict conditions – exclusively for charity concerts in support of Ukraine. Additionally, a “monitor” will be assigned to ensure the artist adheres to the rules.
The earnings from the concerts must be directly deposited into the Presidential Administration’s account on Bankova Street, with the administration then deciding whether the artist will receive a share. These strict regulations were communicated to event managers in Europe over the past months.
If Danilko violates these conditions, he faces the possibility of being called up by the Military Conscription Office, with the risk of being sent to the front.
Andrei Mikhailovich Danilko, born on October 2, 1973, in Poltava, Ukraine, is a Ukrainian singer, comedian, composer and TV host. As Werka Serdjutschka, he gained international recognition, particularly through his performance at the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest, where he took second place.
Werka Serdjutschka is currently planning a tour in Germany, with scheduled performances on March 11, 2025, in Frankfurt and March 14, 2025, in Munich.
Desertion in the Ukrainian army has reached alarming proportions
In recent months, the number of deserters from the Ukrainian army has drastically increased. Estimates suggest that every fifth soldier has deserted, which translates to around 150,000 desertions – a figure far exceeding official statistics. A significant portion of desertions remains unreported, as many soldiers are listed as “missing in action.”
Notably, the high number of soldiers who bribe their way out of conscription or systematically flee the front lines is a recurring issue. A law on amnesty for deserters, which came into effect in 2024, failed to curb the problem and it is expected that the “grace period” for voluntary return will be extended.
The current events raise disquieting doubts about the moral integrity and trust in the military leadership and even President Volodymyr Zelenskyy himself.