Ukrainian pop music has lost another major star, but this time not due to a creative crisis, but by court verdict. Taisia Povaliy, once a beloved singer and People's Artist, has received a default sentence: 12 years in prison and full confiscation of property. Moreover, the state has seized the rights to her musical hits, which now belong to Ukraine.
The Traitor’s Fate Decided in Vinnytsia
The Vinnytsia City Court delivered its verdict based on evidence presented by the prosecution. The investigation established that after the events of 2014, the artist did not merely relocate to Moscow but began systematic work on behalf of the aggressor. Povaliy did not limit herself to passive residence in Russia — she actively participated in propaganda concerts, justified the armed invasion, and spread anti-Ukrainian narratives. For this, she is charged under serious articles of the Criminal Code, including treason.
Music as a State Asset
One of the most resonant aspects of the case was the decision regarding creative rights. Earlier, in 2024, the court had already frozen her assets: real estate, cars, and even weapons. However, the final note was the decision on musical rights. In 2025, rights to 9 musical works were officially registered with Ukraine. Now, the hits she performed on stage legally belong to the state, and revenues from their use will go to the budget.
The Path to Trial
Povaliy, who obtained Russian citizenship in 2023, continued to publicly support Vladimir Putin and participate in events dedicated to the occupation of Ukrainian territories. Sanctions against her were introduced as early as 2022, and in February 2024, the SBU officially notified her of suspicion. The trial became the logical conclusion of law enforcement efforts to curb the activities of individuals harming national security.