Bloodhound Gang: U.S. band booted from Russian festival after flag incident

U.S.-Russia relations are already on the brink thanks to the Tsarnaev brothers and Edward Snowden. Additionally, Russia's recent crackdown on the freedoms of its LGBT citizens have prompted anti-vodka protests and calls for Barack Obama to boycott the Winter Olympics in Sochi next year. And Lady Gaga and Madonna are in hot water with Russian authorities after both American artists made pro-equality statements while on stage in the country.

Earlier this week, a member of the American rap-rock group Bloodhound Gang chose to desecrate the Russian flag during a concert in Odessa, Ukraine. Bassist "Evil" Jared Hasselhoff shoved the flag down his pants and told the cheering crowd, "Don't tell Putin."

In the background, Bloodhound Gang frontman Jimmy Pop can be heard saying he "disagrees" with the stunt.

The band apologized when video of the incident went viral in Russia and Ukraine, prompting authorities to cancel their next performance at the Kubana music festival in the southern Russia.

"Bloodhound Gang packing suitcases," Russian Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky tweeted Friday. "These idiots won't perform in Kubana."

Though Hasselhoff apologized for his actions, a mob of angry Russians pelted the band with eggs and tomatoes as they left the city of Anapa, situated near their canceled concert. A group of Russian nationalists stormed the airport as Bloodhound Gang prepared to leave, smothering a band member with the American flag in an assault that had to be broken up by police.

RT points to this video, which supposedly captures the beginning of the fight.

Bloodhound Gang managed to leave the country unharmed, though Hasselhoff could face charges.

The U.S. ambassador to Moscow took to Twitter to condemn Hasselhoff's actions.

“I find the actions of Bloodhound Gang disgusting. I also condemn the act of violence against them,” Michael McFaul wrote.