Eurovision

The EBU, which produces the event, said Russia's inclusion could bring the competition into disrepute "in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine".

Russia launched an attack on its neighbour Ukraine in the early hours of Thursday.

Western governments have ramped up international sanctions in response.

Countries' protests

Last week, the contest had said Russia would be allowed to compete, so this is a rapid change in stance for the EBU.

Eurovision: Come Together saw the public vote for their favourites, on the night that this year's song contest was due to take place.

The 2020 competition was cancelled in March amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Swedish foursome won it in 1974 in Brighton. The track, which topped the UK charts and set them on their way to fame, went on to sell nearly 6m copies.

Speaking later on the night, Bjorn Ulvaeus from the band said he found it "hard to believe" that was where it began for them all those years ago.

The star sported a black cape and eyepatch during her performance of 1989 hit Like A Prayer and new single Future, featuring US rapper Quavo.

Madonna defied calls from activists to cancel her appearance in Tel Aviv.

But organisers said the inclusion of Israeli and Palestinian flags in the show was not approved in advance.

Two of her dancers - each wearing a respective flag - walked arm in arm.

The country scored 534 points with its song 1944, about the deportation of Crimean Tatars under Josef Stalin.

Australia finished second with 511 points, while Russia - which was the favourite going into the competition - was third with 491 points.

Joe and Jake, who represented the UK with their song You're Not Alone, finished in 24th place with 62 points.

Jamala is the first ever Crimean Tatar to perform at the contest and caused controversy ahead of the show over her political song.