The Ukrainian band Kalush Orchestra won the Eurovision Song Contest with its performance of Stefania, which looked to be a sign of popular support for the nation fighting a full-scale Russian invasion.

The victory early on May 15 entitles Ukraine — which has previously won three times — to host next year's tournament, which Ukrainian officials have confidently announced will be hosted in the fiercely disputed and now mostly damaged port city of Mariupol.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky applauded the victory, declaring that "we will do our best" to organize next year's competition in "Ukrainian Mariupol"... "freedom, peace, and reconstruction!"

"Our bravery inspires the globe, and our music dominates Europe! The Ukraine will host Eurovision next year! Three times before in our history, "Zelensky remarked on Telegram.

Spain placed third in the competition, behind Great Britain. Sweden placed fourth while Serbia finished fifth in the competition held in Turin, Italy.

After rock band Maneskin won the 2021 tournament in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the event was held in Italy.

Due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organized the event, already stated that no artists from Russia would participate in this year's competition.

Regarding next year's event, the EBU stated that no decisions had been taken regarding the finals' arrangements.

"Clearly, there are special hurdles associated with hosting the competition next year. However, as we do every year, we look forward to discussing with [Ukrainian broadcasters] and all other stakeholders the requirements and obligations involved in hosting the competition to ensure we have the most acceptable setting for the 67th Eurovision Song Contest."

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most popular cultural events in Europe, and tens of millions of people watch it live on television. The winner is determined by the votes of a professional jury and the general public.