Mark Knopfler cancels Russia gigs in human rights protest

Mark Knopfler has cancelled two shows in Russia in protest over what he called the country's "crackdown" on human rights groups.

 The former Dire Straits frontman pulled out of the gigs in June after Russian authorities searched the offices of organisations including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International.

Critics say the raids are an attempt to crush government dissent.

lien: "I hope the current climate will change soon"