Rapper Ye is scheduled to perform two shows in St Petersburg this October, marking a rare appearance by a major Western artist in Russia since the invasion of Ukraine.

Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, has announced two upcoming concerts at the 70,000-capacity Gazprom Arena in St Petersburg, Russia, this October. Tickets for the events sold out within hours of the announcement on Monday. The performances mark the first time a major Western star has played in the country since the invasion of Ukraine four years ago.

Ticket Pricing and Reception

Ticket prices for the St Petersburg shows ranged from 9,000 roubles (£78) to 160,000 roubles (£1,394). While the tickets sold out quickly, the announcement faced criticism from conservative lawmaker Vitaly Milonov, who suggested the rapper perform traditional Russian songs instead of his planned setlist.

Recent Tour Challenges

The Russia dates follow a series of cancellations for the artist across Europe. A planned appearance at the UK's Wireless Festival was scrapped after the Home Office denied the rapper entry, stating his presence would not be conducive to the public good. Additional concerts in France, Poland, Italy, and the Czech Republic were also called off, though performances in countries including Spain, Portugal, and Turkey proceeded.