Moscow: In a striking display of talent and cultural diplomacy, Vietnam emerged as the winner of the 2025 Intervision Song Contest, held in Moscow on Sunday. The event, a revival of the Soviet-era music competition, gained international attention after the Australian-born singer representing the United States, Vassy, withdrew at the last minute, reportedly due to political pressure from the Australian government.
The contest, launched by Russia following its ban from Eurovision due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, featured performances from 23 countries, including China, India, Brazil, Kyrgyzstan, and Qatar. The competition emphasized “traditional family values” and offered a prize of 30 million roubles (approximately $360,000). Songs were performed in the participants’ native languages, highlighting the cultural diversity of the event.
Vietnam’s entry, performed by Duc Phuc, won the approval of a professional jury composed of representatives from each participating nation. Kyrgyzstan secured second place, while Qatar finished third. Russia’s own contestant, Yaroslav Dronov, known as “Shaman,” requested that his performance be disregarded by the jury, citing Moscow’s role as the host city. Organizers confirmed that Saudi Arabia will host next year’s contest.
The final was broadcast live on Russian television and streamed online, reaching audiences in countries with a combined population exceeding four billion. The event’s presenting team included a female Indian presenter speaking English, a Chinese male presenter speaking Mandarin, and a pair of Russian-language hosts. Russian President Vladimir Putin opened the final with a video message acknowledging the rapidly changing global landscape and wishing participants success.
The 2025 Intervision Song Contest has sparked discussions about the intersection of culture and geopolitics, with observers noting how music competitions can serve as both artistic platforms and arenas for international messaging. Vietnam’s victory adds a notable milestone to the contest’s rebirth on the global stage.