US Embassy alerts Madonna fans of 'physical violence' ahead of St. Petersberg concert

Washington, Aug. 9 (ANI): The U.S. Embassy in Russia has issued an alert to fans of Madonna, after receiving a threat of violence against the audience and the performers at her concert in St. Petersburg.

"The U.S. Consulate General in St. Petersburg has received information regarding a threat of physical violence against spectators and performers at the St. Petersburg concert on August 9. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow and the U.S. Consulate General in St. Petersburg have shared the information with appropriate Russian law enforcement authorities," the New York Post quoted the U.S. Embassy, as stating"While we expect that enhanced security measures will be put in place at both concerts, U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant regarding their personal security, and to be aware of their surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas," the embassy added.

Russian authorities have reportedly assured American officials that additional security measures for the audience will be in place for the performance.

The threat comes after Madonna spoke out to support the three members of the band Pussy Riot, who are currently on trial for hooliganism charges in Moscow following a February performance in Christ the Savior Cathedral, where the band donned masks and sang lyrics criticizing Vladimir Putin and top Russian Orthodox official Patriarch Kirill, the paper said.

"I mean no disrespect to the church or the government, but I think that these three girls - Masha, Katya, Nadya, have done something courageous, have paid the price for their act, and I pray for their freedom," Madonna had said during Moscow's Olympiisky show. (ANI)