Putin's goddaughter among celebrities facing fallout after scandalous naked party in Moscow
A provocative gathering was held in Moscow, drawing the likes of Russian celebrities, musicians, and journalists. The independent Russian media have since compiled a roster of stars who attended this risqué soirée, organized by Anastasia Ivleeva.
11:21 AM EST, December 27, 2023
According to The Insider, an independent news portal, the attendees of this event have faced significant repercussions. For instance, their appearances in New Year television specials have been suspended. Multiple television networks have received such directives.
Furthermore, radio broadcasts featuring these attendees have been taken off the air. Singer Lolita has stated that, as a consequence, her concerts have been discontinued.
"I am now in tears. I had numerous events lined up, but regardless, I hope we can cope with this," confesses Lolita.
Stars present at the party have started issuing apologies in media outlets. These include Ksenia Sobchak, Lolita, and singer Dima Bilan.
Rapper Nikolai Vasilyev has faced punitive measures as well. He was taken into custody for 15 days and fined 200,000 rubles (approximately $2,650) on charges of minor hooliganism and propagating "LGBT propaganda."
A class-action suit has been filed against Ivleeva in a Moscow court. Actor Alexander Inshakov initiated this, and reportedly, 22 individuals, including prominent figures in culture, sports, and the general public, have joined him. They are demanding Ivleeva contribute 1 billion rubles (approximately $13 million) to the State Support Fund.
Putin's goddaughter calls out the president
In the eyes of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the most critical participant in the scandal is Ksenia Sobchak. A dominant media personality, journalist, and reportedly Putin's goddaughter, she is also the daughter of the former St. Petersburg Mayor Anatoly Sobchak. Sobchak senior is known for his staunch support of the Russian president.
Sobchak earned national recognition as a television presenter, celebrity, and prominent guest at high society functions. She was among the first to bring reality television to the Russian mainstream. The celebrity, known to engage in many enterprises from high-end restaurant management to Far Eastern crab fishing, leads a life of incredible luxury, earning her the moniker "the blonde in chocolate."
Interestingly, Sobchak often voices criticisms against Putin. She has expressed her disapproval of the war in Ukraine. Nevertheless, her opposition is regarded with skepticism, as critics point out it may be a strategic, Kremlin-sanctioned opposition.
