Putin blocks Kanye West concerts in Russia as fear of Nazi backlash grows

Russian authorities have reportedly blocked two planned Kanye West concerts in St Petersburg amid concerns over the rapper’s links to Nazi imagery and remarks.

According to the Daily Star, Gazprom Arena said it had not signed an agreement to host the shows, despite previously announcing the October 10 and 11 performances.

Two Russian government sources reportedly told Fontanka that the cancellation followed instructions from higher authorities, while promoter Say Agency denied the concerts had been cancelled.

The planned shows have attracted controversy over West’s previous praise for Adolf Hitler and use of Nazi imagery.