Charli XCX is breaking her silence following online criticism tied to an afterparty connected to her recent film premiere in Berlin. The pop innovator addressed the situation directly on social media after questions emerged about the event’s host and alleged links to Russia.
Clarifying Her Position
In a message shared on her Instagram Story on Feb. 19, Charli opened with a simple greeting before addressing the growing controversy. She explained that neither she nor her team had prior knowledge of any alleged affiliations surrounding the Berlin afterparty.
The singer made her stance clear, emphasizing that she stands firmly against the violence carried out by the Russian government in Ukraine and supports the people affected by the ongoing war. Her statement was direct and unambiguous, aiming to separate herself from any perceived political ties linked to the event.
The discussion gained traction after reports from United24 Media claimed that the afterparty following the Berlin premiere of The Moment was hosted by Russian model and DJ Anastasia Shevtsova. According to the outlet, Shevtsova is the daughter of Zhanna Shevtsova, who leads the Traditsiya Foundation — an organization described as being funded by the Russian government to promote cultural initiatives.
The Context Behind the Backlash
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, global scrutiny surrounding any perceived ties to Russian state-affiliated organizations has intensified. For some critics, even indirect or familial connections have become grounds for concern.
However, Anastasia Shevtsova publicly rejected any political associations in her own Instagram statement. She shared that her family has roots in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, and said the war has deeply impacted her personally. She also clarified that she has lived and worked in Europe for several years and condemned violence in all forms.
Amid the swirl of online debate, Charli XCX Responds to Criticism Over ‘The Moment’ Afterparty Host’s Alleged Connections to Russia by reiterating that she was unaware of any controversial affiliations and that her values remain firmly opposed to the conflict.
Inside The Moment and the End of the ‘Brat’ Era
The Moment, directed by Aidan Zamiri, premiered internationally at the Berlinale Film Festival. The project features Charli portraying a heightened, self-aware version of herself navigating sudden fame during her Brat album era.
The film first debuted in U.S. theaters on Jan. 30 and has been part of a broader creative rollout that overlaps with Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell. Charli also contributed a companion album inspired by the adaptation, further expanding her artistic footprint beyond music alone.
While in Berlin for the global premiere, the singer reflected on what the film represents in her career. She described The Moment as a definitive closing chapter on the Brat era — calling it a long-overdue full stop.
At the same time, she hinted at a creative reset. Though she feels ready to begin something new, she admitted she doesn’t yet know what form that next chapter will take. For now, she says she’s open to exploring fresh ideas and directions.
A New Chapter Ahead
Despite the controversy surrounding the Berlin afterparty, Charli’s focus appears to remain on her evolving artistry. As she transitions out of one of the most defining periods of her career, the singer seems poised to step into a new phase — one that, by her own admission, is still unwritten.
For fans, the message is clear: while headlines may swirl, Charli XCX is looking forward, not back.
