The trial of feminist punk rockers who chanted a “punk prayer” against President Vladimir Putin from the pulpit of Russia’s largest cathedral is starting in Moscow.

Police have arrested more than 20 demonstrators as a Moscow court considers extending the detention of three female punk rockers arrested after a surprise protest performance against Vladimir Putin.

Two female punk rockers have been ordered to remain in jail awaiting trial for praying to the Virgin Mary to deliver the nation from Vladimir Putin in a surprise performance in the country’s main Orthodox cathedral.