Hilary Swank Regrets Attending Controversial Ramzan Kadyrov Party


Actress Hilary Swank deeply regrets attending the birthday celebrations of Chechnya's controversial President Ramzan Kadyrov, insisting she did not have a "full understanding" of the event.

Swank was among guests at the lavish bash in the country's capital Grozny to mark the politician turning 35 last week (05Oct11). Violinist Vanessa Mae performed at the party, and a number of skyscrapers were illuminated as fireworks were simultaneously set off.

However, Swank's attendance infuriated human rights activists, who accuse Kadyrov of brutality and torture against his own people, and they publicly lambasted her for joining in the celebrations.

Now, the Million Dollar Baby star has apologised for turning up at the party and admits she should never have attended the controversial bash.

She tells the Associated Press, "I deeply regret attending this event. If I had a full understanding of what this event was apparently intended to be, I would never have gone."