Eurovision director admits Russia's return to the contest

Russia can theoretically return to participating in Eurovision, provided that the rules of membership in the union are followed. Martin Green, director of the music competition, said this in an interview with LBC radio on May 15.

In his speech, Green also touched upon the issue of Israel's participation in the contest. According to him, the country's admission to the event was due to the lack of a "global consensus" around the conflict in the Gaza Strip.

"If you are sure that there is a global consensus, you will act very, very quickly. If you know it's not there, you'll need to wait," Green said.

Fake note: why several countries have abandoned Eurovision 2026

Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands and Slovenia announced a boycott of the international song contest.

France 24 TV channel reported on May 11 that Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland and the Netherlands decided to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel's participation in it. According to Green, he intends to make every effort to return these countries. The Eurovision Song Contest in 2026 takes place from 12 to 16 May in Vienna.