President Zelenskyy and Ukraine rally behind Kalush Orchestra's Eurovision win

Three months into the war, Ukraine erupts in celebration following the weekend's Eurovision victory. Kalush Orchestra's entry 'Stefania' earned a huge public vote of 631 points in the close race to win the international competition.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy showed his support in a Telegram post: “Our courage impresses the world, our music conquers Europe! Next year Ukraine will host Eurovision!" he wrote, "We will do our best to one day host the participants and guests of Eurovision in Ukrainian Mariupol. Free, peaceful, rebuilt! I am sure our victorious chord in the battle with the enemy is not far off."

'Stefania' is an upbeat, rap-folk hybrid originally written for the mother of frontman Oleh Psiuk. It evolved into a resonant tribute to mothers across the war torn country.

Lyrics like, “I’ll always find my way home, even if all roads are destroyed,” became a rallying cry in Ukraine and beyond. Unlike many EU countries who performed in English, Kalush Orchestra's entry stayed true to their home language.

The band's live performance [linked below] featured a vibrant mix of flutes, breakdancing, and elaborate costumes.

While Eurovision has rules against political statements, Psiuk used the stage to plead "Please help Ukraine ... please help Mariupol ... right now," in the moments following the performance.

This statement could have disqualified the group from the competition, but this was a risk that they were willing to take said Psiuk. The contest organisers seem to have allowed this statement, having already taken a political stance by banning Russia themselves from the contest altogether.

Unfortunately, their celebrations will be postponed. Today, they return to Ukraine to continue the fight for freedom and peace: "People are getting killed in the war or they fight in the war or lose their jobs in Ukraine, it is not really the best backdrop for celebrations," says Psiuk.

The people of Ukraine, watching anywhere from bunkers or refugee countries, have received a much needed morale boost from the win. Support and recognition have poured in from an international audience of around 200 million.

Ukraine is one of the most successful of the newer competitor countries having joined the contest in 2003. The country has now won three times having triumphed in 2004 and 2016.

Watch Kalush Orchestra's winning performance of 'Stefania' below.

You’ve already heard Kalush’s #Eurovision song, but what’s behind the performance? My interpretation of all the Ukrainian cultural symbols you need to know. Thank you to all who helped 🙏 pic.twitter.com/RpF60lJOcC

— 🇺🇦 Валерія Voshchevska (@Val_Voshchevska) May 15, 2022

YES Ukraine! Kalush Orchestra ❤️ This means even more than a well deserved victory. In dark times music is always able to bring light and make everyone feel closer. Thank you ✨ #Eurovision https://t.co/J4v4skBMq9

— MåneskinOfficial (@thisismaneskin) May 14, 2022

Congratulations #KalushOrchestra and Ukraine for winning #Eurovision

Tonight your song won our heart.

We are celebrating your victory all over the world.

The EU is with you. pic.twitter.com/SVdx8NISVN

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) May 14, 2022