The authorities of the federal state of Berlin banned Ukrainian symbols at rallies during commemorative events on May 8 and 9, equating them with the symbols of the separatists and Russia.
Source: Vice-president of the Ukrainian-German association “Ukraine Future” Anna Praine-Kosach
Vice-president of the Ukrainian-German association “Ukraine Future”, said that the Ukrainian community in Berlin agreed with the local authorities to hold the action and received permission two weeks ago. About 20 thousand Ukrainians were supposed to take part in it.
“But on the evening of May 6, the Berlin police sent the organizers a document stating a ban on the use of any Ukrainian symbols when visiting World War II monuments.”
Not only the flags of Russia, the USSR, or the so-called “LPR” and “DPR” were banned. It is also forbidden to “play and sing Russian/Ukrainian marches or war songs”. Other prohibitions include displaying the letters “V” or “Z”, which are used by Russians in the war against Ukraine, St. George’s ribbons, and other symbols and signs of support for Russia’s war against Ukraine.
According to Berlin Police Chief Barbara Slovik, the police see a “very delicate risk situation.” She added that the police would protect the “worthy memory”, but at the same time take measures against “any form of support, approval or glorification of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.”
The Ukrainian side has already reacted to such a decision by Berlin authorities. The Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany Andriy Melnyk was outraged by the decision to ban the use of Ukrainian symbols on May 8 and 9.
“We are shocked that the Berlin police banned the wearing of Ukrainian flags on May 8 and 9. This is a slap in the face to Ukraine and a slap in the face to the Ukrainian people. This not only shows a lack of tact, but a catastrophic political decision,” Melnyk said.
See also: The full embargo on Russian coal was postponed until mid-August because of Germany’s decision
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