Well-known Ukrainian singer Oleh Vynnyk, who has been living in Germany since the start of the full-scale invasion, has outlined the main reasons preventing his return to his homeland. In a recent interview with blogger Natalia Velesevych, the artist spoke in detail about his current status abroad and the factors shaping his stance during the protracted armed conflict.
Legal status and life abroad
According to the performer, his permanent place of residence has been in Germany for more than twenty years, where he is officially registered with the consulate. Vynnyk states that he has lived in the European country since the early 2000s and has held resident status since 2005. Due to his long-term stay abroad, he does not even possess an internal Ukrainian passport. The artist emphasizes that German reality is far from ideal: by his own admission, he has to work hard to provide for himself and his family within a civilized legal framework.
The security factor and fear of being unable to leave
Vynnyk named the fear of losing the opportunity to return safely to Germany as one of the key reasons for his reluctance to visit Ukraine. The singer stated that he is not ready to risk his right to leave, even to visit his parents' graves. Safety and stability remain a priority for him, which is why he considers any trips inappropriate until the geopolitical and military situation fundamentally changes toward peace.
Conditions for return and public reaction
The artist's position boils down to the fact that returning to Ukraine will only be possible after the onset of long-awaited peace and the establishment of safe living conditions for all citizens. Vynnyk did not specify any timelines for a possible visit. Meanwhile, public reaction to his stance remains mixed: other cultural figures, notably parodist Inna Prykhodko, have openly criticized the singer for his prolonged absence, stating that the Ukrainian stage and public no longer await his return.
