System Is Fucked UP: Madonna blasts Pussy Riot conviction

Madonna has spoken out to condemn the recent conviction of Russian punk band Pussy Riot. The three members of the feminist band have been sentenced to two years in prison for "hooliganism" after performing an anti-Putin song in a Russian cathedral.

Madonna released a statement today (August 18) protesting the prison sentence as "inhumane", reports The Huffington Post. "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," the statement reads. "Even if one disagrees with the location or how they chose to express themselves, the sentence is too harsh and in fact is inhumane. "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 is one of several international musicians who have spoken out in support of Pussy Riot, including Kate Nash and Paul McCartney.