Janice R. Andrews
Russian opposition activists and exiles gathered in Berlin on Sunday for a protest march, calling for an end to the war in Ukraine and Vladimir Putin’s departure from power. The demonstration was led by Yulia Navalnaya, widow of prominent Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, drawing supporters from Germany’s substantial Russian expatriate community.
The protest began at Potsdamer Platz, with participants carrying banners declaring “No Putin. No War.” Marchers proceeded through Berlin’s historic center, passing landmarks like Friedrichstraße and Checkpoint Charlie before concluding their demonstration near the Russian Embassy on Unter den Linden avenue – a location chosen for its symbolic significance.
Demonstrators displayed placards advocating for “victory in Ukraine,” “freedom for Russia,” and Putin’s removal from power, reflecting widespread opposition among Russians living abroad. Germany, which hosts over 235,000 Russian citizens, has become a significant hub for Russian dissidents and critics of Putin’s regime, particularly since the invasion of Ukraine.
According to journalist Simon Young, who covered the event, hundreds of protesters participated, demonstrating the Russian diaspora’s strong desire for political transformation in their homeland. The demonstration represents part of broader efforts by exiled Russian opposition figures to build international support against the Ukraine war and advocate for democratic change in Russia.
The Berlin march highlighted the continued resistance to Putin’s leadership among Russian exiles and their dedication to achieving a democratic and peaceful Russia.
