"We have to inform you that, for reasons beyond the control of the competition organizers and the US delegation, due to unprecedented political pressure from the Australian government, the singer Vassy will not be able to appear on stage as part of today's competition," Vorobyov announced.
The Intervision organizers wish Vassy "strength, inspiration and the earliest opportunity to once again delight the public with her talent," the host added.
However, the US will remain a full-fledged part of the competition and its judge panel, represented by Deep Purple and Rainbow's vocalist Joe Lynn Turner, Vorobyov said.