Ukrainian Representative Leleka to Perform 'Ridnym' at Eurovision 2026

In an exclusive interview with Suspilne Broadcasting, Leleka recounted the origins of her song 'Ridnym,' which began in early 2022, before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. She explained her choice to perform this particular song instead of creating a new one tailored for the competition.

"It was January 2022, before the full-scale invasion. I remember coming back from a protest in Berlin, where there were so many people. We all stood with banners demanding that Russia stop amassing troops at the Ukrainian borders. I was deeply moved by the presence of so many non-Ukrainians at these protests. I felt a connection with these people, a hope that we, as humans and as a global community, could effect change, prevent aggression, and create a world that reflects how we want to live. Naturally, I felt a strong empathy for all the people in Ukraine. I wanted to protect them and create a new destiny where such horrific things are simply impossible. I returned from that protest in a very emotional state, wanting to sit down and channel what I was feeling into my work. I remember just opening a program, taking a microphone, and adding a long, cosmic reverb to create the feeling that every word I spoke resonated throughout the universe," Leleka shared.

After each rally in support of Ukraine, the singer returned to this melody, gradually adding lyrics and music, allowing the song to evolve. However, following the onset of the full-scale invasion, she paused her music writing to immerse herself in volunteer work. It was only when she decided to enter the National Selection that she revisited the song. Leleka made the conscious choice not to create a song specifically for the contest.

"When you write a song with a specific purpose or task in mind, it often feels more like a service or a means to an end. So, I decided to choose an existing song that was born from an internal impulse. I remembered this song, its meaning, and the feelings it evoked, and I felt that it was still relevant, that perhaps its message could resonate now more than ever," she explained.

It took three weeks to finalize the song for her submission to the competition. After making it onto the longlist, she continued to refine the piece.

In addition to Leleka, the song 'Ridnym' was co-composed by Jacob Hegner, Adam Sefalu, and Yaroslav Dzhus. The lyrics were penned by Victoria Leleka and Adam Sefalu.

Leleka triumphed in the National Selection for Eurovision, receiving the highest score of 20—10 points from both the jury and the audience. At Eurovision, she will perform in the second semifinal, taking the stage as the 12th act.

The first and second semifinals are scheduled for May 12 and 14, respectively, with the Grand Final taking place on May 16. A total of 36 countries will participate in this year's competition, marking its 70th anniversary.

Tags: Eurovision, Eurovision 2026, Leleka