Pussy Riot have criticised two former bandmates who appeared at an Amnesty International benefit show last night (February 5).

Nadezhda Tolokonnikova and Maria Alyokhina took to the stage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn to make a speech about human rights and freedom following their infamous stint in Russian jail.

They were introduced to the stage by Madonna and a number of music acts, such as Blondie and Tegan and Sara, performed.

However, Pussy Riot have issued a statement to disown the two musicians for taking part in the concert, claiming that its commercial nature goes against their ideals.

They added that Tolokonnikova and Alyokhina were no longer members of the Pussy Riot collective anyway.

The band wrote: "We're a female separatist collective. We never accept money for our performances and we only stage illegal performances in unexpected public places."

Riot added: "They have said in every interview that they have quit the group and no longer represent Pussy Riot. But all of their appearances are announced as appearances by Pussy Riot. They are no longer Pussy Riot."

The letter continued, however, to say that whilst Pussy Riot have lost two members, the world has gained "two brave rights activists".