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Berlin Renews Ban on Soviet and Russian Symbols at War Memorials for May 8–9

Police cite public order concerns to prevent intimidation of Ukrainian refugees.

Overview

  • The order applies from 6 a.m. on May 8 to 10 p.m. on May 9 at the Soviet war memorials in Treptower Park, Tiergarten, and Schönholzer Heide.
  • It bans military uniforms, the letters Z and V, St. George’s ribbons, and flags linked to Russia, the former USSR, Belarus, the Chechen Republic, and the separatist DPR and LPR.
  • The rules also bar Russian marches and wartime songs, including Sacred War, and forbid displays that back Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
  • Diplomats are exempt, and Second World War veterans may wear uniforms and ribbons, with ribbon or flag elements allowed only as parts of wreaths and floral tributes.
  • Police say these symbols now signal current support for the invasion and can frighten Ukrainian refugees, and Russia’s ambassador in Berlin called the decision unfriendly.