Overview

• Al Bano confirmed to ANSA on June 8 that he will stage a concert for peace in St. Petersburg on June 20 alongside singer Iva Zanicchi.
• He frames the performance as an act that transcends politics by offering direct support for peace through music.
• The Italian star says he has distanced himself from Vladimir Putin since the Ukraine war began and is untroubled by accusations of friendship.
• Critics warn the concert’s timing—shortly after Russia’s most intense air raids on Ukraine—risks bolstering Kremlin messaging.
• Earlier this year a Russian impresario signaled plans for another peace concert on Moscow’s Red Square in September or October.