LONDON: The Eurovision Song Contest 2023 is likely to be held in Britain as organizers consider it too risky for this year's winner Ukraine to host it because of the war, prompting immediate disappointment from Kyiv.
While a decades-long tradition dictates that the winner of the competition has to host it the following year, organizers said the security guarantees required to hold the competition meant discussions would be held with runners-up Britain.
Ukraine was not happy with the decision, with Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko on Telegram calling for more dialogue "because we are confident that we will be able to fulfill all the commitments we have made".
Britain's entry into the competition in Turin last month, "Space Man" by British singer-songwriter Sam Ryder, came second only to Ukraine's Kalush Orchestra.
The group rode a wave of public support to claim an emotional victory with "Stefania" welcomed by the country's president.
Organizer European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said it was in discussions with British broadcaster BBC to host the next event.
"The EBU ... share their sadness and disappointment that next year's contest cannot take place in Ukraine," the Eurovision Song Contest said.
"It is our full intention that Ukraine's victory will be reflected in next year's show."
The program typically attracts around 200 million television viewers.
A spokesman for British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who visited Kyiv on Friday, said: "We will remain committed to ensuring that it reflects the rich culture, heritage and creativity of Ukraine, as well as the ongoing partnership between our two countries." Is."