Ukrainian bass Alexander Tsymbaluk is responding to the Teatro San Carlo’s decision to hire Ildar Abdrazakov for its upcoming production of Verdi’s “Don Carlo.”

Tsymbaluk, who is slated to perform with the Russian bass and Putin supporter told the Huffington Post, “I am still in a state of shock over the theater’s decision to invite Ildar Abdrazakov for the production of ‘Don Carlo,’ especially considering his recent ties to Putin. Unfortunately, I found out about his participation in this production only after signing the contract. I consulted for a long time with my teachers regarding my participation in ‘Don Carlo,’ and they responded that the ban on performances by Russian singers in European theaters should come from the theaters themselves, and not from the self-exclusion of Ukrainian artists from productions with Russian colleagues.”

He added, “Now, more than ever, it is important to support and glorify our nation: this is our task and duty as both artists and citizens! As a Ukrainian, I feel pride in the opportunity to represent my culture on the international stage and thereby remind the world of the resilience and strength of my people.”

According to the Huffington Post, Tsymbalyuk’s family has experienced the horrors of the war in Ukraine firsthand with his loved ones forced to leave their home. He has previously spoken in support of his home country via social media.

The Ukrainian bass premiered the production of “Don Carlo” in 2022 and received rave reviews with critics stating, “Alexander Tsymbalyuk’s inkily black Inquisitor was neither old nor blind, but slippery and sinister, accompanied by a quartet of faceless dancers.” He is slated to reprise the role of the Grand Inquisitor.

Abdrazakov, who is performing the role of King Phillip, endorsed Putin this past year and has performed in many of the Russian dictator’s concerts including the BRICS Summit. He was also named a Member of the President’s Council. He has also continued his activities in Russia including his self-named festival. Following his endorsement of Putin, Abdrazakov was removed from his commitments at the Zurich Opera, Opera de Paris, Chicago Symphony, Boston Symphony, and the Wiener Staatsoper, among others. He was also dropped by his management.

The Huffington Post noted that it had reached out to the management of the Teatro San Carlo as well as the Mayor of Naples for comment, but received no answer.

Abdrazakov is also set to perform in the Teatro San Carlo’s production of “Attila” in April.