In a recent controversy, M. Zacharova, a spokesperson from the Kremlin, criticized professor J. Zabarskaitė for her views on Jessica Shy's song that suggested it contained Slavic influences. Zacharova labeled such sentiments as akin to those of Nazis, thus igniting a heated exchange between Russian officials and Lithuanian academics. Zabarskaitė countered by reflecting on the deeper issues of cultural influence and soft power that such criticisms represent, suggesting that they point towards a dangerous trend of cultural assimilation that should be examined critically.

Zabarskaitė expressed an ironic take on the situation, indicating that she might even consider the attack a form of compliment as it brings to light significant concerns regarding the impact of foreign culture on national identity. She argued that when individuals start to accept and internalize foreign cultural elements, they risk losing touch with their cultural roots. This phenomenon is particularly troubling as it reflects broader issues of national sovereignty and cultural integrity, especially in the context of Lithuania’s historical struggles against Russian influence.

The professor emphasized that her comments were specifically about a cover of Shy's song rather than the original work. She clarified that her intention was not to engage in debates about who sings in Slavic languages but rather to highlight the cultural implications and the importance of maintaining one’s cultural identity amidst external pressures. This incident showcases the ongoing tensions between Russian narratives and Baltic states, particularly regarding culture and identity, revealing the complexities of navigating such discussions in today's geopolitical climate.