Kanye West's sold-out Russia concerts cancelled, organisers confirm

Two sold-out concerts that Kanye West, who now performs under the name Ye, was scheduled to play in Russia have been cancelled, organisers confirmed, following weeks of uncertainty over whether the shows would go ahead.

The US rapper had been due to perform at the Gazprom Arena in St Petersburg on 10 and 11 October. Russia's foreign ministry had previously described the planned shows as unacceptable, citing concerns over West's past comments praising Adolf Hitler.

The cancellation brings to an end a period of confusion surrounding the concerts, which had been sold out despite the controversy surrounding the artist's past remarks. Organisers did not immediately provide further details on the reasons behind the final decision to call off the shows.

West has faced repeated backlash in recent years over comments and social media posts expressing admiration for Hitler, which led to the loss of several business partnerships and widespread public criticism. The cancelled Russia dates add to a string of difficulties the artist has faced in staging performances amid ongoing controversy over his remarks.

It is not clear whether alternative dates or venues will be arranged for the cancelled shows.