Minister Tkachenko expresses his position on Ukraine’s Eurovision jury votes for Poland and Lithuania

Ukraine's Eurovision jury votes for Poland and Lithuania are a real shame.

The relevant statement was made by Ukrainian Culture and Information Policy Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko on Facebook.

"I would like to address our closest friends in Europe, Poland and Lithuania, and express my personal position on the voting points given by the Ukrainian jury to Poland and Lithuania. Such evaluation does not reflect our real attitude towards you, our closest friends in Europe," Tkachenko wrote.

In his words, Great Britain's performance was cool and took second place. But, giving 0 points to Poland and Lithuania was a real shame, Tkachenko noted.

"You obtained 12 from Ukrainians! Your support is invaluable. Our gratitude and commitment to you are the same. And, although the competition is not political, this is not about politics – this is about friendship, common values and comprehensive support in all areas. And I hope that all of this will last for many, many years ahead. Dear Polish and Lithuanian people, we are eternally grateful to you, and our victory is common, both at the Eurovision and after we defeat the enemy," Tkachenko stressed.

A reminder that Ukraine's song Stefania by Kalush Orchestra obtained 12 points from the Eurovision professional jury of Poland and Lithuania. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian jury did not give any points to Poland and Lithuania.