Madonna isn't finished stirring up trouble in Russia. In an official statement, the rabble-rousing pop star has decried the two-year prison sentences handed down Friday to members of Pussy Riot, the female punk group accused of committing "hooliganism" in a February demonstration against President Vladimir Putin.
"I protest the conviction and sentencing of Pussy Riot to a penal colony for two years for a 40-second performance extolling their political opinions," said Madonna, who first voiced her support for the band during a Moscow concert last week.
"Even if one disagrees with the location or how they chose to express themselves, the sentence is too harsh and in fact is inhumane," she continued. "I call on all those who love freedom to condemn this unjust punishment. I urge artists around the world to speak up in protest against this travesty. They've spent enough time in jail. I call on all of Russia to let Pussy Riot go free."
Madonna's statements are bound to upset Russian conservatives -- a group she's done plenty to tick off in recent weeks. Last week, a gang of 10 anti-gay activists filed a $10.5 million lawsuit against the Queen of Pop, alleging that pro-LGBT remarks she made during a show in St. Petersburg were detrimental to Russian society.
See Madonna's Daughter Lourdes in Our "Most Stylish Music Offspring" Gallery
Watch Madonna's "Turn Up the Radio" Video
