In the saga of Russian feminist punk band/activists Pussy Riot, on trial on charges of “hooliganism,” Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to the news media for the first time about the band's possible fate. Putin is recommending "leniency" for members of the band, detained for the past five months.
The charges were laid following Pussy Riot's performance of an anti-Putin song (deemed a “punk prayer”) at Moscow's Christ the Saviour Cathedral in February.
With numerous celebrities, including Pete Townshend, Jarvis Cocker, Martha Wainwright and Corinne Bailey Rae, protesting the Pussy Riot members' detention, and Putin visiting London for the Olympics, perhaps it’s not surprising the official stance on the band’s actions has now softened.
CBC News has the full story: Putin recommends leniency in Pussy Riot trial
Related:
CBC News: Russian girl band Pussy Riot on trial for anti-Putin stunt
CBC News: Top musicians urge release of Russian punk band Pussy Riot
CBC Music: Pussy Riot hooliganism trial to be broadcast by Russian court
Pussy Riot's Canadian Connection
Listen to CBC Q’s interview with A.M. Gittlitz punk culture writer