Katya Chilly at centre of scandal over antisemitic remark

Ukrainian singer Katya Chilly, well known for her hit "Ponad khmaramy" and participation in the "Voice of the Country" project, faced criticism following an antisemitic  comment about a menorah installed in central Kyiv. The performer expressed her dissatisfaction that a symbol of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah had appeared on the city's central square during wartime.

On her Facebook page, the singer wrote:
“In wartime, the symbol should be Ukrainian Christmas. Not other symbols and not symbols of other peoples”. (In wartime, the symbol should be Ukrainian Christmas. Not other symbols and not symbols of other peoples)

The post sparked a fierce reaction from social media users. Katya was accused of antisemitism, with commentators emphasising that Ukraine is a multi-confessional country and that the menorah is part of Jewish culture, historically rooted in its territory. It was also noted that until the 1920s, Judaism was one of the three main religions in Ukraine, until the repressions of the Soviet authorities changed the situation.

Criticism was directed not only at the singer's words but also at those who supported her point of view. For instance, renowned chef Yevhen Klopottenko was condemned for liking her post.

The incident once again highlighted the need for respect and understanding of cultural diversity during the difficult times the country is experiencing.