Chris Pine Thinks U.S. Should Do More to Fight Russia’s ‘Awful’ Lack of Gay Rights

“I think we should do more than just send gay Olympians there,” the “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” star says

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Chris Pine is taking on a Russian terrorist in theaters this weekend in “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit,” but he wishes the United States would take on Russia for its “awful” treatment of gays.

“I think we should do more than just send gay Olympians there,” the 33-year-old actor told the Associated Press while promoting the thriller based on Tom Clancy’s classic character. “What’s happening there in terms of gay rights or the lack of it is extraordinary and awful.”

Also read: Russia Bombings: NBC Taking ‘Every Precaution’ With Winter Olympics

President Vladimir Putin signed a law into effect in 2013 prohibiting “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations among minors.” The bill criminalizes public expression of support for nontraditional relationships.

In wake of the anti-gay legislation, the U.S. is sending openly gay former Olympic athletes Brian Boitano, Billie Jean King and Caitlin Cahow to the opening ceremony of the Sochi Olympics, which kick off on Feb. 7.

Pine is the latest celebrity to speak out against Russia’s treatment of its homosexual population.

Famed journalist Meredith Vieira said Putin’s policy has made her think twice about attending the upcoming Olympics.

Also read: Pussy Riot: Backing Olympics = Backing Putin

“I have sort of mixed feelings given all the stuff that’s going on in Russia with Putin and the anti-gay legislation,” she told Jay Leno last month before concluding she decided the event is ultimately about the athletes, not their host’s laws.

“But I really hope that people demonstrate there,” Vieira added. “I’m hoping that at least people wear the ribbons — and I think they will.”

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