Alexey Potapenko, better known by his stage name Potap, has once again found himself at the center of public discussion due to a statement about his military obligation. In an interview with journalist Ekaterina Gordeeva, as reported by Styler (an RBC-Ukraine entertainment project), the producer directly answered the question of whether he is subject to mobilization and how he would act in the event of a conscription order.

Statement on Mobilization

Potap emphasized that he does not have any special status that would exempt him from the general requirements of the current Ukrainian legislation. According to him, if he receives a lawful order to be sent to the front, he is ready to comply. “I am subject to mobilization. If I am told to go, I will go,” the artist stated. At the same time, he did not specify exactly when this might happen or under what specific circumstances.

“Someone Has to Be Potap”

Separately, the performer spoke about his own image and the role he has chosen for himself in the public space. He noted that he intentionally continues to remain himself, despite public attitudes and the numerous discussions surrounding his person. “But someone in this life has to be Potap, and I chose to be Potap,” the musician added.

Trips Abroad: Charity and Commerce

In another part of the conversation, the artist explained why he has not been in a hurry to return to Ukraine recently. According to him, each departure was tied to various procedures and the need to process documents, and abroad he combined charitable projects with commercial activity. “Each time it was some different ministries, different situations, companies, firms... I go out for a charity event, and at the same time I am also engaged in commercial activity,” he stated.

The Financial Aspect

Potap emphasized that the financial question is one of the main reasons for him to stay abroad: he must provide for his family and pay for, in particular, his son’s education. “When I start thinking about who will pay the bills, who will pay for my son’s education... I am responsible for my family, and no one but me will do this,” the producer said, adding that he is “drawn” to where he is able to earn.

Legislative Context

The statement came against the backdrop of ongoing changes in mobilization legislation. According to Ukrainian media, in 2026 new categories of conscription are being discussed, including changes that take effect on March 1 and on April 1, 2026. Potap’s specific legal status under these provisions has not been publicly disclosed.

Contradictory Data

There is an internal tension in the artist’s words: on the one hand, he publicly confirms his readiness to comply with the requirements in the event of conscription, while on the other — he explains in detail why he is in fact abroad and is not in a hurry to return, citing earnings and providing for his family. Moreover, his claim that he is “subject to mobilization” is a self-declaration: there is no independent confirmation of his legal status by military or state structures in the provided sources, and the artist has not named the timelines or circumstances of a possible conscription.