Ukrainian singer, volunteer, and former Playboy model Dasha Astafieva has become the center of a heated social media debate following her participation in Ukraine’s National Unity Radio Dictation. Critics questioned her suitability for the cultural event, but the star delivered a sharp response that quickly went viral.
On October 27, 2026, Ukrainians across the country and abroad took part in the annual National Unity Radio Dictation, broadcast by Ukraine’s public broadcaster Suspilne.
This year’s text, titled “The Letter That Never Ends,” was written by Ukrainian author and war veteran Artur Dron.
For the first time, the dictation featured two readers: Ukrainian language teacher Artur Proidakov and singer Dasha Astafieva.
However, controversy began even before the broadcast.
Some social media users questioned the decision to invite Astafieva, referring to her past career as a Playboy model and her provocative appearances in the entertainment industry.
Others defended the singer, highlighting her volunteer work, cultural initiatives, and efforts to promote Ukrainian literature.
“Get Up and Leave!” — Astafieva’s Unexpected Response
After the dictation ended, the hosts asked the participants to share their impressions.
Astafieva used the opportunity to address her critics directly.
“I want to tell all my haters: get up and leave!” she said, dramatically tossing her pen onto the table.
Her remark referenced a line from “Vchytelka” (“The Teacher”), a song she performs with the Ukrainian group Kurgan & Agregat.
The moment quickly attracted attention online, with users sharing the video and debating the singer’s bold response.
A Scandal or a Brilliant Publicity Moment?
Reactions were divided.
Many users praised Astafieva’s confidence and sense of humor, arguing that she had every right to respond to the criticism.
Others believed that such a remark was inappropriate during a nationally significant cultural event.
But the controversy has also sparked a broader conversation: should a person’s past career determine their right to participate in major cultural initiatives?
In recent years, Astafieva has been actively involved in volunteer activities and Ukrainian cultural projects, including her audiobook and reading platform UnderBooks.
While social media continues to debate whether her response was justified, one thing is clear: the 2026 National Unity Radio Dictation will be remembered not only for its meaningful text, but also for its unexpectedly dramatic conclusion.
What do you think? Did Dasha Astafieva brilliantly shut down her critics, or did she go too far?
