The bombastic politician trotted out his standard litany Monday night for the World Affairs Council, a nonpartisan educational group.
He asserted that corruption has infiltrated all levels of the Russian government and society, that Russia is in the grip of economic and political failure, and that only the election of his Liberal Democratic Party can save the country.
He also said reports in the Western media that he is a racist and anti-Semite are false.
Congressman Tom Lantos called the decision to grant Zhirinovsky a U.S. visa a "horrendous tactical mistake."
Zhirinovsky is scheduled to travel to New York City later in the week.
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.
