SOCHI, RUSSIA - MARCH 16: Russia President Vladimir Putin waves during the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games Closing Ceremony at Fisht Olympic Stadium on March 16, 2014 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Dennis Grombkowski/Getty Images)
In a bizarre new speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russian culture is being “canceled” by western countries.
Putin argued that western Europe and the U.S. are trying to “cancel” Russia’s rich history and culture the same way Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling has been canceled for her views on gender roles.
Putin talked about what he sees as discrimination against Russia by western countries citing Russian composers and authors being banned.
Since Putin sent troops to invade Ukraine, western countries have piled on sanctions that have further isolated Russia. But some of the strongest actions have come from cultural institutions.
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