Restrictions on commemorative dates in Berlin<\/p>\n
In Berlin, strict rules have again been introduced for events on May 8 and 9 near Soviet war memorials in Tiergarten, Treptower Park, and Sch\u00f6nholzer Heide.<\/p>\n
According to police, new orders will be published shortly and will repeat measures from previous years.<\/p>\n
The restrictions apply to public gatherings related to the anniversary of the end of World War II and are aimed at preventing possible conflicts.<\/p>\n
Ban on symbols and insignia<\/p>\n
On these dates, the use of a number of symbols remains prohibited, including flags of the USSR, Belarus, and Chechnya. At the same time, Ukrainian symbols are not subject to restrictions.<\/p>\n
Wearing military uniforms, using military insignia, displaying the letters V and Z, as well as Georgievsky ribbons, is also prohibited.<\/p>\n
The display of images associated with the leadership of Russia, Belarus, and Chechnya is additionally restricted.<\/p>\n
Exceptions are made for diplomats and certain categories of World War II veterans.<\/p>\n
Court decisions and government arguments
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Attempts in previous years to challenge such bans in court were unsuccessful.<\/p>\n
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Administrative courts have previously stated that the restrictions are aimed at maintaining public order and ensuring dignified commemoration events.<\/p>\n
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The rulings also noted that certain symbols, in the context of the ongoing conflict, acquire a political and provocative meaning, which may affect security in the city.<\/p>\n
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\nSecurity situation and possible risks
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Police unions say that events on May 8 and 9 require significant resources to maintain order.<\/p>\n
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According to them, international tensions affect the situation in Berlin and increase the workload on law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\n
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Police also do not currently confirm the possible appearance of radical groups, but traditionally, there is heightened attention to gatherings near memorial sites on these dates.<\/p>\n
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US President Donald Trump criticized <\/a>the German chancellor for attempts to influence discussions on the Iran issue, saying European leaders should focus more on ending the war in Ukraine.<\/p>\n
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