Justus Frantz, a German conductor and pianist, received the Order of Friendship medal from Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, amidst ongoing tensions due to the Ukraine conflict. Frantz has a long-standing relationship with Putin and has previously defended Russia's actions in Crimea. Despite his controversial views, he signed a peace manifesto advocating for an end to military support for Ukraine. He continues to perform in Russia and has connections to the Russian music scene.