Overview

• Berlin police have banned Russian and Soviet flags, military uniforms, and related symbols at three key WWII memorials, citing Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
• An association has filed an emergency injunction to allow the display of Soviet flags during ceremonies on May 8 and 9.
• The Berlin Administrative Court is expected to announce its decision on the legal challenge by Tuesday or Wednesday morning.
• Exceptions to the ban include allowances for veterans, diplomats, and representatives of WWII Allied nations.
• Heightened police security measures are in place for the commemorations marking 80 years since the end of WWII in Europe.