The decision to deny the pop star a stage in Russia reportedly comes in the wake of performances by Madonna and Lady Gaga, which struck controversy in the country when the two voiced their support for gay culture and equality.

Russia has been under international scrutiny for their anti-LGBT laws since they came into effect in June. In accordance to the new law, the government claimed that Lady Gaga and Madonna were in violation of their visas by speaking out in favor of gay rights at their shows.

The Moscow Times also reports that the head of the Petersburg Music Industry company, Yevgeny Finkelshtein, spoke out earlier this month against the law, fearing that the finger-pointing would discourage other performers from visiting the country.