In a surprising turn of events in Kyiv, Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, ended his day by showcasing his musical talents. After a series of important meetings and promises of military aid, Blinken grabbed a guitar and jammed out to Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World” with a local Ukrainian rock band.
The impromptu performance, captured and shared on social media, sparked mixed reactions in Ukraine. Some saw it as a heartwarming show of solidarity, while others questioned the timing given the ongoing tensions at the frontlines.
Taking the stage at Barman Dictat, a popular underground bar in central Kyiv, Blinken joined forces with the band 19.99 to deliver a message of support. Before strumming his guitar, Blinken expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people, especially those in the north-eastern city of Kharkiv.
The band members were initially told they would be playing with Neil Young, only to discover at the last minute that their special guest was the US Secretary of State. Guitarist Arsen Gorbach described the experience as a profound moment in Ukrainian cultural history.
While some praised the performance, others criticized the optics of singing in a bar while the situation on the ground remained dire. Recent Russian offensives near Kharkiv have escalated tensions, leading to concerns about the safety of civilians and Ukrainian troops.
Despite the controversy, Blinken’s choice of song, written during a time of political upheaval, resonated with the audience. ”Rockin’ in the Free World” symbolizes the fight against oppression and the quest for freedom, themes that hold significance in Ukraine’s current struggle.
2024-05-15 03:54:51
Original from www.theguardian.com