AceShowbiz - Charli XCX faced public criticism after hosting an after-party for her film The Moment at the Berlin Film Festival, which featured DJ Petit, whose real name is Anastasia Shevtsova and who reportedly has connections to Russia.

On February 19, Charli XCX addressed the backlash in an Instagram Stories post, expressing her opposition to the Russian government's actions in Ukraine. She stated, "I stand against the atrocities committed by the Russian government in Ukraine and I stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine."

Concerns arose because, according to United24 Media, Shevtsova’s mother founded the "Traditsiya" foundation, an organization linked to Vladimir Putin’s Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives. The after-party sparked protests by Ukrainian artists on February 14, who highlighted that when a Russian state-affiliated foundation operates in occupied Ukrainian territories, it effectively collaborates with occupation administrations. Organizers emphasized that this dynamic helps normalize and legitimize the occupation.

In response to the controversy, DJ Petit issued a statement on Instagram clarifying her personal position regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. She revealed that her family members live across Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, and that the ongoing tragedy impacts her deeply. She emphasized, "I would never wish harm, violence, or suffering upon anyone. What is happening is heartbreaking for millions of families, including mine."

Shevtsova further explained that she has lived and worked in Europe for the past four years, focusing solely on her artistic career and not engaging in political activities related to the conflict.

This incident highlights the complex intersections between cultural events and geopolitics, with Charli XCX publicly reaffirming her support for Ukraine despite the controversy surrounding the involvement of artists with alleged Russian affiliations.