The Athens State Orchestra has canceled the concert of Russian pianist Denis Matsuev, a renowned artist and supporter of Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin's policies, including the invasion of Ukraine, scheduled for November 21. "In its many years of activity, the Orchestra has served artistic excellence and the values of open dialogue and respect that define the European cultural community. In this context, it has chosen to review its programming in response to the recent international situation," reads a statement from the Orchestra. In 2018 Putin awarded him the Order of Honor for his contribution to Russian culture and arts.