Hilary Swank is the latest celebrity to attend an event connected to people who are reportedly involved in human rights violations. INSIDE EDITION has the story.
A birthday party attended by Hilary Swank is causing uproar and condemnation from human rights groups around the world.
The two-time Oscar® winner spoke at the lavish 35th birthday celebration for the president of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov.
"Thank you so much for inviting me to your beautiful city. Truly for me this is a great honor to learn more about you, and your country, and what you're building," said Swank.
Here's the gigantic problem, the president has been accused of condoning abductions, torture, and murder.
Also at the event was action star, Jean-Claude Van Damme, who professed his love for the young leader. Kadyrov was personally installed by Russian strongman Vladimir Putin.
"I love you Mr. Kadyrov, I love you all, in my heart," said Van Damme.
It's assumed the stars were paid handsome sums of money to attend. The violinist alone earned $500,000 to play.
The group Human Rights Watch issued this statement: "Ramzan Kadyrov is linked to a litany of horrific human rights abuses. It's inappropriate for stars to get paid to party with him."
Swank is now expressing deep regret for attending.
"If I had a full understanding of what this event was apparently intended to be, I would never have gone," Swank said in a written statement.
Eva Mendes and Shakira were also invited but they passed.
Today, Swank is sure to be wishing that she had done the same.
