 The trial and sentence attracted considerable criticism , particularly in the West . The case was adopted by human rights groups including Amnesty International , which designated the women prisoners of conscience , and by a number of prominent entertainers . Public opinion in Russia was generally less sympathetic towards the women . Putin stated that the band had " undermined the moral foundations " of the nation and " got what they asked for " . Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said he did not think the three members of Pussy Riot should have been sent to jail , but stressed that the release of the remaining two imprisoned members was a matter for the courts . Having served 21 months , Tolokonnikova and Alyokhina were released on December 23 , 2013 , after the State Duma approved an amnesty . 
