Academy Award-winning actress Hillary Swank said Thursday that she regrets attending an Oct. 5 gala featuring Chechen president Ramzan Kadyrov, who human rights activitsts say utilizes terror tactics to stifle dissent in the Russian republic.

"I deeply regret attending this event, which has thrown into question my long and deeply-held commitment to the protection of human rights. I would never intentionally do anything that raised doubts about such commitment,” said Swank. “I will continue to donate my time and my financial resources not only to the charities with which I am currently affiliated, but also those dedicated to the preservation of human rights.”

Human Rights Watch, a non-governmental organization, criticized the celebrities who attended Kadyrov's bash. 

"Ramzan Kadyrov is linked to a grim record of abuse," said Hugh Williamson, Europe and Central Asia director at Human Rights Watch, in a press release. "When stars get paid to turn up to party with him, it trivializes the suffering of countless victims of human rights abuses."

A representative for Swank told TheWrap that the star plans to donate money she earned by attending Kadyrov’s party.

"She is donating her personal appearance fees from this event to various charitable organizations," Swank’s spokesperson said Thursday.

Jean-Claude Van Damme, who also attended the event, reportedly received $1 million for the appearance, according to TheWrap. Grammy Award-winning songwriter Seal and violinist Vanessa-Mae attended the party, allegedly receiving $500,000 each for their performances, according to TheWrap.

Swank is not the first celebrity to come under fire for attending events hosted by or for dictators and their families.

Singers Mariah Carey, Beyonce Knowles and Nelly Furtado came under fire in March over their private concerts for the Gaddafi family.

 

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