Russia’s Intervision: Moscow’s Musical Counterattack to Eurovision – With the US on the Guest List
In what can only be described as the most melodious geopolitical flex of the decade, Russia has officially dusted off the cobwebs from Intervision, its Soviet-era answer to Eurovision, and given it a shiny new reboot. Set to premiere on 20 September 2025 in Moscow, the revamped contest already boasts a line-up that’s raising eyebrows, not least for including the United States—yes, that United States.
A Song Contest with a Side of Diplomacy
First launched during the Cold War as a cultural counterweight to the Eurovision Song Contest, Intervision once gave voice to the Eastern Bloc and its comrades. Now, following Russia’s continued exclusion from Eurovision due to its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has decided it’s high time to launch its own soft-power spectacular. Only this time, they’re promising “authentic music” and “values for normal people”—which, we assume, excludes glittery pop ballads and wind machines.
The First 20 Countries: From Havana to Houston
In a dazzling display of unexpected alliances and eyebrow-raising partnerships, the first 20 confirmed participating countries include:
🇦🇿 Azerbaijan
🇧🇾 Belarus
🇻🇪 Venezuela
🇻🇳 Vietnam
🇪🇬 Egypt
🇮🇳 India
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan
🇶🇦 Qatar
🇨🇳 China
🇨🇴 Colombia
🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan
🇨🇺 Cuba
🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
🇷🇺 Russia
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
🇷🇸 Serbia
🇺🇸 United States
🇹🇯 Tajikistan
🇺🇿 Uzbekistan
🇿🇦 South Africa
Yes, you read that correctly: The United States of America will be competing in a Russian-led song contest. And if you’re wondering whether this reflects warming diplomatic ties or just a mutual love for dramatic key changes and questionable fashion, you’re not alone.
Early Favourites (and a Fascist Aesthetic?)
Three countries have already announced their acts: Kyrgyzstan is sending the pop-folk trio Nomad; Belarus is pinning its hopes on teenage starlet Nastya Kravchenko; and Russia will be represented by Shaman—a singer who rose to fame after the invasion of Ukraine and has since become a government darling for his ultra-patriotic anthems and aesthetic choices that scream “1970s Eurovision villain.” One of his hits, we kid you not, is titled My Struggle—a title with rather unfortunate historical baggage.
Intervision: A Cultural Curtain Call?
Whether Intervision 2025 will become a recurring global showcase or a one-hit wonder remains to be seen. But with its blend of politics, propaganda, pop and pageantry, it’s safe to say this won’t be just another talent show. As Europe continues to wave its rainbow flags and belt out peace ballads, Russia is assembling its own musical coalition—no sequins necessary.
So grab your popcorn (or perhaps your pelmeni) and mark your calendar: 20 September could be the start of the next great musical Cold War.
Source: Euronews