Russian stars in Courchevel.Image: watson/instagram
An ultra-luxurious stay by Russian influencers in Courchevel sparks a national discussion. They are accused of shamelessness and treason in the middle of the war against Ukraine.
January 27, 2026, 4:55 p.mJanuary 27, 2026, 4:55 p.m
A luxurious trip by Russian influencers to Courchevel with champagne, luxury hotels and a private concert by Patricia Kaas has sparked a heated discussion in Russia against the backdrop of the Ukraine war.
According to «Le Figaro», the stay took place from January 15th at the initiative of the Russian clothing chain «Rendez-Vous» to mark the brand’s 25th anniversary. The company invited personalities from the world of fashion, media and social networks over four days. The program consisted of winter sports, helicopter flights, champagne tastings, photo shoots and festive evenings, which were widely reported online.
Russian influencers in Courchevel.Image: Instagram
According to «TF1 Info», the event ended with a red carpet gala event, followed by a private concert by Patricia Kaas, a French artist popular in Russia. Guests included models, influencers, media personalities and Ksenia Sobchak, a well-known television presenter who is sometimes referred to as the “Russian Paris Hilton”.
Here she is in Courchevel (in white)
Xenia Sobchak and Samoylovaoxana in Courchevel.Image: Instagram
Estimates of the cost of the trip vary depending on the source. Citing Russian media, “Le Figaro” speaks of a bill of around 30 million rubles (just over 300,000 francs). Be that as it may, in the face of the war against Ukraine that Russia has been waging for four years now, the display of wealth sparked numerous outraged reactions on social networks.
According to “TF1 Info”, several soldiers and military bloggers have denounced this display, which was perceived as shameless, and some have even called for symbolic sanctions against the participants. A Telegram channel known for spreading Russian propaganda called for the influencers present to be sent “to the gulag,” as “Le Figaro” also reported.
Scandal reaches the Duma
The controversy even reached the Duma (Russian parliament). MP Alexander Tolmachev’s reaction, quoted by both media outlets, was particularly strong. In an interview with Ria Novosti, he denounced an “excessive celebration” and spoke of a possible “betrayal of the country’s interests,” emphasizing:
“The brand spends millions in France, a country that provides military aid to the Ukrainian army.”
In response to the outcry, the brand took to Instagram to explain, according to Le Figaro and TF1 Info, that the event was an initiative of the local Courchevel team and pointed to its long-standing international presence. However, the communication made no direct reference to the war in Ukraine. (yeah)
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