Vienna's prestigious Wiener Festwochen faced swift backlash for planning a performance by maestro Teodor Currentzis, with ties to Russia, alongside a Ukrainian conductor. Critics deemed the pairing insensitive amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. After weeks of pressure, the festival canceled Currentzis's appearance but maintained the Ukrainian conductor's. The decision reflects the wider trend of cultural organizations severing ties with individuals associated with the Russian government. Currentzis, under scrutiny for his Russian connections, has yet to publicly comment on the war. Despite the cancellation, the festival aims to continue fostering challenging artistic dialogue.