Lady Gaga has called for a boycott of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi during an appearance on a British talk show, reaffirming her negative attitude to Russia's treatment of gays.
The popstar was praising British Olympic diver Tom Daley for announcing that he was in a relationship with another man when the conversation turned to Russia and the upcoming Winter Olympics.
"To be honest I don't think we should be going to the Olympics at all," Gaga told host Alan Carr on his show "Chatty Man."
"I just think it is absolutely wrong for so many countries to send money and economy in the way of a country that doesn't support gays," she said.
When Carr asked whether Lady Gaga would boycott Russia on her upcoming world tour to promote her latest album "Artpop," the star hesitated and then said:
"I don't think I'm even allowed in anymore. I screamed 'I'm gay, arrest me' last time I was there."
Video excerpt of Lady Gaga on "Chatty Man" where she said Russia should be boycotted for its treatment of gays. (YouTube/BeanymanSports)
During Lady Gaga's last performance in Moscow in December 2012, the singer denounced local Russian authorities for passing local laws banning the promotion of gay relationships toward minors in several Russian cities, including St. Petersburg.
The singer also asked her fans to "come together for the voice of society, for equality in Moscow and equality in Russia," and told the crowd "you can be gay in my house."
Concert organizers have said that criticism of the legislation by Lady Gaga and Madonna have caused the authorities to tighten their grip on the country's visa regime for foreign performers, with pop star Selena Gomez being denied entry to the country earlier this year.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
