U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken surprises Kyiv with a performance of Neil Young’s ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ at a basement bar, expressing solidarity with Ukraine during Russian missile attacks amidst his visit, drawing mixed reactions in the midst of intense conflict.
On May 14, 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken surprised Kyiv by performing Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World” at Barman Dictat, a basement bar in Ukraine’s capital, amid his visit. The performance, accompanied by Ukrainian band 19.99, aimed to show U.S. solidarity with Ukraine during intense Russian missile attacks. Blinken, known for his musical interests, stated, “The United States is with you, so much of the world is with you, and they’re fighting not just for a free Ukraine, but for the free world.” The appearance was well-received by some, though it drew mixed reactions given the intense conflict in regions like Kharkiv. Blinken is the first senior U.S. official to visit Ukraine after a recent $61 billion military aid package was approved by Congress.