Ukraine has pulled out of this year's Eurovision Song Contest.
It comes in the wake of a dispute between organisers and the singer chosen to perform at the event in Tel Aviv.
The chosen performer Maruv, whose real name is Anna Korsun, had refused to sign a deal with the national broadcaster (UA:PBC) which would have stopped her from performing in Russia in future.
Tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain high in the wake of the annexation of Crimea in 2014.
In an Instagram post about the dispute, Maruv said she was a musician and not a political tool.
Two other acts were also approached to take her place.
However, they have also refused to take part in the song contest.
"Systemic problem"
In a statement quoted by the Eurovision website, Ukraine's national broadcaster said: "The national selection this year has drawn attention to a systemic problem with the music industry in Ukraine – the connection of artists with an aggressor state with whom we are in the fifth year of military conflict.
"Whilst for some, these links are acceptable, for others it causes indignation and nonacceptance."
It says it's now withdrawing from the contest over the "excessive politicisation of the national selection process".
The European Broadcasting Union, which produces the annual contest, confirmed 'with sadness' Ukraine's decision.
It is with sadness that we can confirm that Ukraine’s broadcaster, @UAPBC, has informed the EBU that, following further discussions, they have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest 2019. We hope to see them again in 2020.https://t.co/bYOWWbSTZz
— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) February 27, 2019
The organisation said: "There will be further discussions between the EBU and UA:PBC on this matter but we hope to see them again in 2020.
"However, for now, we look forward to what is already shaping up to be a fantastic event in Tel Aviv in May."
The annual song contest takes place in Tel Aviv in mid-May.
Last year, Israeli singer Netta won the show in Lisbon with her song 'Toy'.
Some campaigners have called on Ireland to boycott the event in protest over the occupation of Palestinian territories.
However, the Government has dismissed that prospect.
