By Blessing Nweke
TV presenter and influencer Anastasia Ivleeva faces a 100,000-rouble fine imposed by Moscow’s Lefortovo court for organizing an “almost naked” party at Mutabor nightclub on December 20. Ivleeva, who has already apologized twice, expressed remorse in an Instagram video, pleading for a second chance.
Convicted of violating public order by organizing a mass presence, Ivleeva has promised to donate ticket sales proceeds to charities. However, her troubles may escalate as a billion-rouble class action lawsuit for “moral damage” has been filed by 22 individuals. They demand the sum be donated to a group supporting Russians fighting in Ukraine.
The private party gained public attention through videos of Russian celebrities in underwear, lingerie, and, in one instance, a strategically placed sock and shoes. In a wartime atmosphere, the event stirred moral outrage and diverted attention from rising egg prices.
Russian rapper Vacio, arrested for “disorderly conduct” due to his single-sock outfit, received a 15-day jail term and a fine twice that of Ivleeva. Pro-Kremlin figures condemned the party, questioning how celebrities could revel while soldiers were in the midst of a “special military operation.”
a pro-censorship activist, criticized the party, stating it disrespected soldiers on the front line.
Consequences for guests varied, with canceled concerts, lost sponsorship contracts, and removal from televised events. Veteran singer Lolita Milyavskaya faced gig cancellations and exclusion from television. Ivleeva’s face vanished from MTS’s advertising campaign, and her business now undergoes a tax service audit.
Apologies came from others involved, including former Eurovision singer Dima Bilan and TV presenter Ksenia Sobchak. Russian pop figure Philipp Kirkorov, regarded as Putin’s favorite singer, apologized profusely, hoping his “mistake” wouldn’t impact his career in Russia. Rumors of losing his “Order of Honour” proved false, but he was removed from a New Year’s Eve TV film poster, and scenes with him are being reshot.
The Kremlin distanced itself from the controversy, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov urging the public not to discuss the topic. As repercussions continue, the fallout from Ivleeva’s party underscores the tensions and sensitivities in Russia during a challenging period.