Protesters target Royal Opera House over performance by ‘Putin’s diva’

Ukraininans and supporters protesting outside the Royal Opera House in London, where Russian opera singer Anna Nebretko was performing. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian

Dozens of protesters have gathered outside the Royal Opera House to demonstrate against an eminent Russian opera singer nicknamed “Putin’s diva” who performed on the opening night of Tosca.

Anna Netrebko, 53, one of the world’s best-known sopranos, who draws full houses for her performances at leading opera houses globally, has denied being an ally of the Russian leader.