The Munich Philharmonic is calling on Chief Conductor Valery Gergiev to distance himself from Putin.

In a statement by the Mayor of Munich Dieter Reiter, “I have clarified my stance against Valery Gergiev and urge him to also clearly and indisputably distance himself from the brutal assault, Putin against Ukraine and now especially against our partner city Kyiv. If Valery Gergiev does not clearly position himself here on Monday, he can no longer remain the chief conductor of our philharmonic. ”

The letter added, “The current situation in Ukraine concerns me deeply, the events since today shock me. Kyiv is the partner city of Munich and I have publicly placed myself on this: With great disruption, we all had to take note that Russia is now waging an open war against Ukraine. I am stunned by this barbaric act of Russian power. Putin is pursuing his nationalist goals with all brutality and without regard for human lives. This horrific, unlawful aggression must be stopped asap. Our concern is especially applicable to our partner city Kiev, which, like many other places in Ukraine, has already been targeted. Of course, we will provide civilian and humanitarian support to relieve the suffering of local people in the best way possible.”

He added, “Together with the Orchestra representatives of the Munich Philharmonic, I expect from you as the chief director of the Orchestra now a clear sign of distancing from the unlawful attacks against Ukraine.”

The news comes as the Teatro alla Scala is pressuring the conductor to take a stance and a day after the conductor dropped out of concerts at Carnegie Hall. Gergiev has been a supporter of Putin in the past appearing in Campaign videos and receiving prestigious prizes from the leader of Russia.