The violent reaction Latvia's gay pride parade efforts perhaps pale in comparison to the government's official reaction: It's the gays' fault as much as the homophobic protesters. Not only is Interior Minister Dzintars Jaundzeikars saying the melee – instigated by a sanctioned neo-Nazi presence – is is partly the fault of the gay men and women, but now he's saying neither side are the true victims. That superlative goes to the police.

The minister said he was satisfied with the work of the police during July 22 events, as policemen had to endure intense psychological pressure. "In fact, they were the ones who suffered most. They were pelted with eggs and excrements. The pressure was enormous, and it was hard to resist taking sides," the minister said.

So hard to resist, in fact, that the police decided not to take any side — and instead watched the violence take place.

Interior Minister defends handling of gay pride incidents [Baltic Times]
Earlier: Neo-Nazis Corner Gay Activists In Latvia