Dresden Braces for Tensions on 80th Anniversary of Bombing

Commemorations, counter-protests, and far-right gatherings are set to converge in the city, prompting significant police preparations.

The 80th anniversary of Dresden's bombing during World War II will feature official memorial events alongside anticipated far-right demonstrations and counter-protests.
The far-right 'Gedenkmarsch,' scheduled for February 15, is expected to draw increased participation due to international mobilization and the historic milestone.
The counter-protest group 'Dresden Wi(e)dersetzen' has organized numerous gatherings across the city, aiming to block far-right events through civil disobedience and large turnouts.
The group has criticized the city's focus on mourning the bombing, calling for a shift in remembrance toward victims of Nazi atrocities instead.
Police are preparing for large-scale operations on February 13 and 15, with expected disruptions to traffic and heightened security measures.