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Image source, Getty Images
Image caption,Rock band Maneskin won last year's Eurovision and have gone on to score top 10 hits in the US, the UK and the rest of Europe
Russia will no longer be allowed to participate in this year's Eurovision Song Contest, the European Broadcasting Union has said.
The EBU, which produces the event, said Russia's inclusion could bring the competition into disrepute "in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine".
Russia has launched a military assault on neighbouring Ukraine.
State broadcasters from countries including Iceland, Finland and Norway had called for Russia to be banned.
The EBU stressed it is "an apolitical member organisation of broadcasters committed to upholding the values of public service", and that it "took time to consult widely among its membership" before reaching its decision.
It said they remain dedicated to "protecting the values of a cultural competition which promotes international exchange and understanding, brings audiences together, celebrates diversity through music and unites Europe on one stage".
The 66th edition of Eurovision is due to take place in Turin.
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