The pro-Russian propaganda symbol "Z" is a punishable offense in Germany. On the anniversary of the war of aggression in Ukraine, the police are expecting demonstrations in many places. The authorities want to take special care to prevent the use of the symbol and to protect Ukrainian refugees.
In possible demonstrations marking the anniversary of the Russian attack on Ukraine, the police want to consistently enforce the current ban on the Russian propaganda symbol "Z" in Germany. This was said by the federal chairman of the police union (GdP), Jochen Kopelke, the editorial network Germany.
"On the anniversary of the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, the police are preparing for gatherings and motorcades on the streets of the entire republic," said Kopelke. Overall, more participants are expected at pro-Ukrainian events than at pro-Russian demonstrations.
"An encounter between the two sides will definitely be highly emotional. They will try to influence the other side loudly," predicted Kopelke. The police, who have to fulfill their mandate to protect freedom of assembly, are in this area of tension. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year.
According to the union leader, on the anniversary of the attack, the police will have to pay particular attention to protecting the accommodation of Ukrainian refugees. "This is where the greatest potential for provocation for pro-Russian assemblies lies. That requires special sensitivity on the part of the assembly authorities."
Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. The "Z" symbol marks Russian military vehicles in Ukraine. In addition, it has established itself in Russia as a propaganda sign of support for the aggressive war - for example on clothing or on house facades. In Germany, the use of the symbol in a corresponding context is punishable because it represents the approval of a war of aggression that violates international law.
