Woody Allen Defends Russian Film Festival Appearance After Ukraine Calls It a ‘Disgrace’: Putin’s War Is ‘Appalling,’ But You Can’t Cut Off Artistic Conversation

Woody Allen is defending his controversial appearance at Russia’s Moscow International Film Week, which prompted Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry to slam the director as a “disgrace” amid Russia’s ongoing invasion of the country. Allen attended the event in Moscow via video conference and spoke about his love for Russian cinema and his potential interest in directing a movie in Russia, among other topics, per the Associated Press.

“Woody Allen’s participation in the Moscow International Film Week is a disgrace and an insult to the sacrifice of Ukrainian actors and filmmakers who have been killed or injured by Russian war criminals in their ongoing war against Ukraine,” Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry posted on social media after Allen’s appearance. “By taking part in a festival that brings together Putin’s supporters and voices, Allen chooses to turn a blind eye to the atrocities Russia commits in Ukraine every single day for 11 years now.”

“Culture must never be used to whitewash crimes or serve as a propaganda tool. We strongly condemn Woody Allen’s decision to bless Moscow’s bloody festival with his address,” the Ministry concluded.

In a statement to The Associated Press and CNN, Allen defended his right to attend the film-oriented event in Russia and criticized the country’s leader, Vladimir Putin.

“When it comes to the conflict in Ukraine, I believe strongly that Vladimir Putin is totally in the wrong. The war he has caused is appalling,” Allen said. “But, whatever politicians have done, I don’t feel cutting off artistic conversations is ever a good way to help.”

Per CNN: “The Moscow International Film Week is sponsored by Russian state media, state-owned companies and the Moscow City Government. Russian director Fyodor Bondarchuk, who is a Putin ally and has publicly supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” moderated the conversation with Allen.

Allen has remained ousted from Hollywood after sexual assault allegations made by his adopted daughter Dylan Farrow resurfaced during the #MeToo movement. But he has found ways to continue making and releasing films outside of the U.S. His 2020 comedy “Rifkin’s Festival” was shot in San Sebastian and premiered at the San Sebastian International Film Festival, while 2023’s French-language thriller “Coup de chance” premiered at the Venice Film Festival.