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Russian Biker Club Begins Controversial WWII Memorial Ride to Berlin

The Nachtwölfe have departed Moscow for a planned May 9 Victory Day event in Berlin, but face EU sanctions and bans on pro-war symbols.

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Overview

  • The Nachtwölfe, a nationalist Russian motorcycle club, has started their symbolic ride from Moscow to Berlin to mark the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end.
  • The club plans to commemorate Victory Day on May 9 at Berlin’s Treptower Park Soviet War Memorial, despite uncertainty over EU entry due to sanctions.
  • Berlin police have confirmed bans on Russian flags and symbols glorifying the war in Ukraine, including the letter 'Z,' which some riders displayed in Moscow.
  • The Nachtwölfe, known supporters of President Vladimir Putin, previously toured Crimea with him in 2014 following its annexation.
  • The ride has reignited debate over Russian participation in WWII remembrance events in Germany, especially given ongoing tensions over the Ukraine conflict.