Madonna's Russia Concerts Threatened With Violence, U.S. Citizens Warned

U.S. officials in Russia are urging U.S. performers and spectators to “remain vigilant” at two upcoming Madonna concerts, having received information regarding threats of physical violence. 

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The U.S. Embassy in Moscow and the U.S. Consulate General in St. Petersburg issued a warning on Tuesday for U.S. citizens in Russia that are planning to attend Madonna’s concerts in Moscow and St. Petersburg on Aug. 7 and Aug. 9, respectively. The information has also been shared with local authorities, who have indicated that they will provide enhanced security measures at both concerts.

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“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 statement reads.

It is not clear whether Madonna, herself, has been individually targeted by the threats.

After playing a small club show in Paris, Madonna was made the subject of booing and riots, with many fans expressing disappointment at the brief set. The pop star also drew ire from supporters of French right-wing politician Marine Le Pen, who is pressing charges after Madonna showed images of Le Pen’s face with a swastika superimposed on it.

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“It’s not my intention to make enemies,” Madonna told the audience. “It’s my intention to promote tolerance. And when we start saying that we have to get rid of this person or we have to get rid of that person, because then we’ll have a better place, it starts to sound like something else, it starts to sound scary. So the next time you want to point the finger at somebody and blame them for a problem in your life, take that finger and point it back at you.”

Read the full warning from the U.S. Embassy below.

U.S. Embassy Moscow and U.S. Consulate General St. Petersburg

SECURITY MESSAGE FOR U.S. CITIZENS:
MADONNA CONCERTS

August 7, 2012

This is to alert U.S. citizens in Russia who are planning to attend the Madonna concerts in Moscow on Tuesday, August 7, or in St. Petersburg on Thursday, August 9, that 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.  Russian authorities have indicated to the Embassy that they are taking appropriate measures in light of this information.  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.