Madonna appeals for release of punk band pussy riot

US superstar Madonna has publicly and controversially appealed for the release...

US superstar Madonna has publicly and controversially appealed for the release of three members of the Russian punk band Pussy Riot during a concert in Moscow. 

Photos of the singer wearing a balaclava similar to the trademark outfits worn by Pussy Riot and with the band’s name on her back are circulating online. 

Madonna also told her audience at the Olympic Stadium last Tuesday that she was praying for the freedom of the three women, who are being accused of inciting religious hatred and are facing a sentence of up to three years in jail. The judge presiding over the case is expected to deliver the verdict on the 17th of August. 

The group members involved include Maria Ayokhina, 24, Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, 22, and Yekaterina Samutsevich, 29. They were arrested after they played a song attacking Russian leader Vladimir Putin in front of the altar of the main cathedral in Moscow. The incident occurred on the 21st of February. 

Madonna is not the only celebrity who has spoken out in support for the group. 

Sting, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Yoko Ono have all appealed for leniency. 

Yoko Ono said: “Mr. Putin, you are a wise man and don’t need to fight with musicians and their friends.”