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A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst as a symbol of "vulgar ethno-facism".
Russian Railways boss Vladimir Yakunin denounced the bearded drag queen, who won the song contest last weekend, at a recent conference in Berlin, where he lamented about the West's opposition to the Russian anti-gay "propaganda" law.
"A vulgar ethno-facism from the distant past has once again become part of our lives," said Yakunin. "The ancient definition of democracy had nothing to do with bearded women but with the leadership of the people."
Watch the video for Conchita Wurst's 'Rise Like a Phoenix' below:
Wurst's win at Eurovision, which Russia also participated in, has been seen as a symbolic victory against prejudice and intolerance by many - apart from Yakunin, obviously. Maybe he should chill out and stick on 'Rise Like a Phoenix'.
Meanwhile, Russian officials have called for the country to withdraw from next year's Eurovision and start their own "straight" version of the contest, called Voice of Eurasia. Be our guests, Russia - you weren't all that this year anyway.
