Putin Pub, one of the most popular bars in Jerusalem, has had "Putin" removed from its name, which had been its trademark for many years.
The bar's owners decided to scrap the name, which is a clear reference to the Russian president, as a result of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, according to Ynet.
"The name was given by the previous owner, as a gimmick. We do not want any connection to politics," the owners told Ynet, explaining their reasoning.
״לא רוצים קשר לכובש״: אחרי 15 שנה, פאב ה׳פוטין׳ בירושלים הסיר את השלט ומשנה את שמו — https://t.co/hKTRiHIELJ pic.twitter.com/D3InIrzCEv
— mynet ירושלים (@mynetjerusalem) February 26, 2022
The bar is located in the city center of Jerusalem on Jaffa Street across from Safra Square, with its name finally being changed after 21 years. The pub also hosts many Ukrainian and Russian tourists.
"This is a place of entertainment and no one wants to feel the effects of the war and politics when drinking beer," said Leonid Tatrin one of the bar's owners. "We are against the war, we want to host Ukrainians and Russians here. We have received full support for lowering the sign."
Jessica, a US citizen who arrived at the pub with her face adorned with Ukrainian flag colors, told Ynet that she felt "good to share the same feelings," and to be with other Ukraine supporters.
Tomash, a Danish citizen living in Sheikh Jarrah, said added that it was clear to him that after the sign was removed, he would come to spend time in the bar. "The situation in Ukraine reminds me of what is happening with the Palestinians, people who cannot help themselves." he said.
A new name for the bar has yet to be chosen.
