GMA News, Turin :
Ukraine won the Eurovision Song Contest on Sunday with an infectious hip-hop folk melody, boosting spirits in the embattled nation fighting off a Russian invasion that has killed thousands and displaced
millions of people. Riding a huge wave of public support, Kalush Orchestra beat 24 competitors in the finale of the world’s biggest live music event with Stefania, a rap
lullaby combining Ukrainian folk and modern hip-hop rhythms. “Please help Ukraine and Mariupol! Help Az?vstal right now,” frontman Oleh Psiuk appealed in English from the stage, referring to the port city’s steelworks where Ukrainian soldiers have been surrounded
by Russian forces for weeks.
In the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, the triumph was met with smiles and visible relief. “It’s a small ray of happiness. It’s very important now for us,” said Iryna Vorobey, a 35-year-old businesswoman, adding that the support from Europe was “incredible.”
Following the win, Psiuk-whose bubblegum-pink bucket hat has made him instantly recognisable-thanked everyone who voted for his country in the contest, which is watched by millions of viewers.
