The White House says the United States is reviewing its relationship with Uganda because of the African nation's new anti-gay law.

Uganda's president signed a bill into law Monday that punishes gay sex with up to life in prison. He said the law was needed because the West is promoting homosexuality in Africa.

White House press secretary Jay Carney called the law "abhorrent." Carney said the country "took a step backward" with the law and urged its repeal.

Carney said the White House is undergoing the review of its relationship. He declined to say what that could mean in terms of aid or other impacts while the review is underway.