Steven Seagal performs gig for pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine
The Hollywood actor pledged his support to Russian president Vladmir Putin
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Steven Seagal is facing a backlash after performing for pro-Russian separatists at a gig in Crimea this weekend.
The US action movie star, 62, took to the stage in Black Sea port city Sevastopol on Saturday to pledge support for his friend, Russian president Vladmir Putin.
The concert, organised by Russian nationalist motorcycle gang the Night Wolves, took place in the former Ukrainian peninsula annexed by Russia in March.
Reports suggest that Seagal held up a shirt with Putin’s face on it and thanked the crowd, in front of the black, blue and red Donetsk People’s Republic flag.
Seagal described Putin as “one of the great living world leaders” and said he would “like to consider him as a brother” earlier this year, The Moscow Times reported. The men are believed to share a passion for martial arts.
As fierce fighting continues in eastern Ukraine, Seagal’s political stance saw him banned from playing at an Estonian blues festival this summer.
He insists that Putin’s “desire to protect the Russian-speaking people of Crimea” is “very reasonable” and has mentioned possibly seeking Russian citizenship at some point in the future.
Other high profile names to strike up friendships with controversial politicians include basketball's Dennis Rodman, who has visited North Korea numerous times to meet with Kim Jong-un.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments