"Controversial 'White Party' Prompts Sri Lanka to Cancel Visas for Russian Expats"

The organizer of a "white party" in Sri Lanka faced backlash after the event's advertisement suggested it was open only to white people, prompting swift criticism on social media. The organizer later apologized, stating that the event was meant to bring together expatriates and was a "bad idea." The party was cancelled, and the venue severed ties with the event planners. The incident highlighted the growing presence of Russians in the coastal town of Unawatuna, leading to the Russian Embassy in Colombo condemning racial discrimination. Sri Lanka subsequently ended long-term tourist visa extensions for Russians and Ukrainians, although the decision reportedly lacked prior Cabinet approval.