Neil Young Cancels Ukraine Concert Over Safety Concerns

Since Russia decided to invade Ukraine in 2022, the entire world turned to watch the ongoing war. In the United States, the government moved to help the Ukrainian soldiers as videos of the conflict poured online. Over the last few years, celebrities, singers, and bands came to the defense of Ukraine and demanded action be taken. Although not about to take up arms, Neil Young looked to offer a free concert in Ukraine. While sounding like a good idea, Young recently canceled the concert due to concerns for his safety and the safety of his crew. 

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Sharing a post on his website, which if you haven’t visited – is completely Neil Young, the singer revealed the sad news. “Our concert in Ukraine is cancelled. We had a good venue, close to a shelter, but the changing situation on the ground was too much. I could not in good conscience take my crew and instruments into that area. My apologies to all. Ukraine is a great country with a good leader. Slava Ukraini.”

While wanting to offer his support to Ukraine with a special concert, the conflict continued to escalate with each passing month. As tensions hit a boiling point, Young understood that traveling into a warzone came with a great deal of danger and security. Not willing to risk it, he decided to back out. 

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Neil Young Continues To Support Ukraine

Although no longer performing the concert, Young continues to criticize the current administration for their treatment of the Russia/Ukraine war. After President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the White House, Young blasted the administration for crippling the standing of the U.S. on the global stage. 

In another post, Young insisted, “Under 47’s leadership, the US has lost its standing. Loyalists will never be stronger than Patriots, and Patriots are in the majority here in the USA. Our Patriots will take to the streets to peacefully demonstrate. There will be a moment of truth in our country and we will show the world who we really are. The USA will again be the leader of the Free World.”

With Young preparing for his Love Earth Tour, the singer will kick off the tour in June with concerts across Europe. He will eventually travel back to North America, performing concerts throughout September. 

(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images)