The management of Russian band t.A.T.u are “saddened” by the reaction to a homophobic rant from former singer Julia Volkova.

Volkova, who has previously identified as bisexual herself, said earlier this week that she “would condemn” her son if he came out as gay, but that women should have the “freedom” to be lesbians.

The band – widely known for their ‘faux-lesbian’ image, officially split in 2011, and had previously spoken out in favour of LGBT rights.

The band’s official account on Russian social network VKontakte posted a statement in response to the rant.

It reads: “In the last few days we have been saddened by the internet reaction to rash statements from Julia Volkova.

“It’s especially sad to see the reaction from foreign fans, who jumped to conclusions, reading translated sound-bytes of Julia’s words taken out of context.

“We won’t say anything for Julia, but we would like to apologize to everyone who took her words personally and close to heart.

“As a part of t.A.T.u, Julia showed her support of the LGBT community more than once: during the early 2000s, girls and boys alike were kissing on stage next to them.

“Like any public person, Julia will find thousands of people who will judge her. If you are disappointed in her and in t.A.T.u – well, everyone has a right to hold a grudge.

“Everyone has an opinion and for every one of us there is a judge. Julia will have to answer for her words, whether she likes it or not.

“We hope you stay with us.”

The band’s former singer Lena Katina condemned Volkova last week, saying: “I can say one thing: God is teaching us to live in love, to be tolerant and not to judge other people! And I do so!

“Love is love and it is a wonderful feeling! I think everybody should be free to love who they love and be with who they want to spend their life with! Xoxo”

If made today, the duo’s 2002 music video for ‘All The Things She Said’, which showed the two singers dressed as schoolgirls kissing in the rain, might see them facing arrest under the country’s ‘gay propaganda’ law.

Watch the famous music video for ‘All The Things She Said’ below:

