Madonna Stands Up For Jailed Band in Russia

Tensions were high following Madonna's concert in Moscow on Tuesday, when the singer expressed support for Russian punk band P*ssy Riot, who have made international headlines for being in custody for five months after giving an impromptu performance in the city's main cathedral to call for an end to President Vladimir Putin's rule. The band's trial wrapped up this week and a verdict is expected next week.

The issue has garnered international attention as prosecutors seek a 3-year jail term for the trio on charges of hooliganism motivated by religious hatred for their "punk prayer."

On Thursday, Madonna spoke at length during her St. Petersburg show about human rights issues. "We want to fight for the right to be free," began the singer. "To be who we are. It's a very strange time in the world; I'm traveling around the world and I feel it in the air. I feel that people are becoming more and more afraid of people who are different. People are becoming more intolerant.