BOSTON – A U.S.-based conservative group that supports Russia’s efforts to curtail gay rights and abortion is suspending its plans for an international conference in Moscow this September because of the turmoil related to Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine.
The World Congress of Families said Tuesday the uncertain political situation – including sanctions imposed on Russia by the U.S. and some European countries – “has raised questions about travel, logistics and other matters” essential to planning for the conference.
A statement by the congress says the suspension “is not meant to reflect negatively on the Russian people, churches or individuals who have taken a leadership role in the fight to preserve life, marriage, and the natural family.” It adds, “At a time when Western governments are moving backward to a pagan worldview, Russia has taken a leadership role.”
Similar views were expressed last week by the Rev. Franklin Graham. In a column supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s stance on gays, Graham wrote, “Isn’t it sad … that America’s own morality has fallen so far that on this issue – protecting children from any homosexual agenda or propaganda – Russia’s standard is higher than our own?”