Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli applauded the organizers for their decision, labeling it "common sense" and highlighting a commitment to the "values of the free world." Ukraine had previously urged the festival to withdraw Gergiev’s performance, condemning him as "Putin's mouthpiece" and insisting he should not be celebrated as long as Russian military actions persist.

Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, echoed these sentiments and celebrated the cancellation as a win for artistic integrity. However, Russia's ambassador to Italy criticized the decision as "scandalous," claiming it illustrates a broader trend of "cancelling" Russian culture from Western spheres. Gergiev, previously a prominent figure in major international venues, has had ties severed with institutions like Milan's La Scala and New York's Carnegie Hall in light of his affiliations.

The uproar coincided with a significant European summit aimed at affirming support for Ukraine, with Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly condemning Putin’s actions from the outset. As the intersection of culture and politics unfolds, Gergiev’s canceled concert highlights the ongoing complexities and divisions in the realm of the arts today.