Russian President Vladimir Putin has defended former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in an effort to back the country's new anti-gay law by linking it to his conviction for sex with underage prostitutes.
Putin said: "Berlusconi is being tried for living with women, but if he'd been living with men, as a homosexual, no one would have dared lay a finger on him."
Putin's lauded Russian values centered on traditionalism, while he excoriated the West for turning away from Christian values to embrace globalization, multiculturalism and a politically correct focus on the rights of sexual minorities and one-gender families, the Washington Times reports.
Russian politicians have faced criticism from gay rights advocates over the recent anti-gay law that Moscow claims is designed to combat pro-gay propaganda and protect children.
Critics said the new law restricts gay rights and lays a legal endorsement over gays in Russia.