‘Almost naked’ Russian celebrity party sparks backlash in the wartime, celebrity jailed

A rapper who attended a Moscow nightclub while wearing only a strategically-placed sock has been sentenced to 15 days in jail. Furthermore, many other popular Russian celebrities have publicly apologized after a controversial "almost naked" dress code at a celebrity party sparked widespread criticism and multiple investigations.

The crackdown occurred following the circulation of pictures from the event, which was held on December 20 and organized by TV presenter and actress Anastasia Ivleeva.

Among the celebrities baring their bodies at the Mutabor nightclub was rapper Vacio, while Ivleeva was photographed flaunting a 23 million rouble ($251,000) emerald-studded chain secured around her buttocks. This display of lavishness drew further criticism, particularly as many Russians are currently facing economic difficulties. 

The images received severe criticism from conservative legislators, bloggers, and others, who argued that they were inappropriate and even unpatriotic for a country that invaded Ukraine in February 2022. As a result, this issue has taken over the headlines, overshadowing other news stories such as increasing egg prices and other concerns.

Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the event as a stain on those involved but mentioned the opportunity for self-improvement, according to Ura.ru news outlet.

Nikolai Vasilyev, known by his stage name Vacio, was sentenced to 15 days in jail and fined 200,000 roubles ($2,182) by a Moscow court due to the LGBTQ "propaganda" law. This law, which was made stricter last year, prohibits the spreading of positive information about homosexual, bisexual, transgender, or lesbian individuals. 

Following the incident, Ivleeva released two public apology videos, including one on Wednesday, expressing her regrets for her actions and admitting that she deserved the consequences. However, she also expressed her hope for a second chance.

As a result of the backlash, Ivleeva's association with major Russian mobile phone operator MTS has been severed and the tax authorities have initiated an investigation that could potentially lead to a five-year imprisonment. Furthermore, a Moscow court has accepted a lawsuit filed by a group of over 20 individuals, demanding Ivleeva to pay one billion roubles ($10.9m) in compensation for causing "moral suffering". If successful, they have requested that the money be directed towards a state fund supporting Russian veterans from the war in Ukraine.

Filipp Kirkorov, a renowned pop artist in Russia, also sought forgiveness after a video surfaced of him putting an elaborate lace outfit with futuristic sunglasses.