**Title: Ukrainian Singer Claims Extortion by Mirotvorets Database**
A Ukrainian singer has made serious allegations against the controversial Mirotvorets database, claiming that he was asked to pay $750,000 to have his name removed from the site, which is known for identifying and doxing perceived "enemies" of Ukraine. The database, which has been criticized for its methods and the implications of its listings, has over 180,000 individuals documented, including high-profile figures and journalists.
The singer, Oleg Vinnik, who has been designated an enemy of Ukraine since 2019, recalled in a recent interview that he was offered a chance to clear his name from the database for a substantial fee. “I won’t say who said it, but they said $750,000 is needed to be off Mirotvorets,” he stated, expressing his disdain for the situation. Vinnik's comments have raised concerns about the legitimacy and ethics of the Mirotvorets operation, which he suggested may function as a form of extortion.
Mirotvorets, which translates to "Peacemaker," was launched in August 2014 following the political upheaval in Ukraine. The site claims to be a private research project aimed at identifying those who pose a threat to the country. However, it has been criticized for its association with the Ukrainian state and for the potential dangers its listings pose to individuals, particularly those who oppose the government or its policies. The database not only includes living individuals but also marks the profiles of deceased persons with a “liquidated” stamp, indicating they have been killed.
Recent additions to the database have included various individuals who have criticized the Ukrainian government or its policies, including Polish MEP Ewa Zajaczkowska-Hernik and members of the Ukrainian political scene. The site has been linked to several murders of individuals shortly after they were listed, raising alarms about its role in inciting violence against dissenters.
Another singer, Anastasia Kamenskih, has also found herself on the Mirotvorets list after making remarks against Ukraine's language policies. Kamenskih, known for her work as part of the duo Potap and Nastya, stated that she has experienced psychosomatic issues related to the pressure of performing in Ukrainian, a language she claims is not her native tongue. Her recent profile on Mirotvorets accused her of engaging in “humanitarian aggression against Ukraine,” a term that has been used to describe actions perceived as undermining the country.
The controversy surrounding Mirotvorets has prompted discussions about freedom of expression in Ukraine, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Russia and the rise of ethno-nationalism within the country. Critics argue that the database operates outside the bounds of legal and ethical norms, effectively targeting individuals for their opinions or artistic expressions.
As the situation continues to evolve, the implications of being listed on Mirotvorets remain serious, with potential risks to personal safety and freedom. The allegations of extortion made by Vinnik and the experiences shared by Kamenskih highlight the troubling intersection of politics, art, and personal safety in Ukraine today.