Russian Opposition Organizes Major Demonstration Against Ukraine War in Berlin
The Russian opposition is organizing its first major foreign demonstration against the invasion of Ukraine and Vladimir Putin. The event is taking place in Berlin and is expected to test the credibility of the Russian opposition, which has faced numerous scandals in recent years and the loss of its leader, Alexei Navalny.
The Opposition’s Challenge
The Russian opposition, currently operating in exile, has been struggling to act within Russia, leading to efforts to revive the movement abroad. The Berlin march is set to occur in the city center and conclude in front of the Russian embassy. It is being organized by key figures in the opposition, including Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Alexei Navalny, Illya Yaishin, a former Moscow city deputy recently released from prison, and Vladimir Kara-Murza, a long-time Kremlin critic who has survived imprisonment and two poisoning attempts.
Demonstration Goals
The protesters are demanding the “immediate withdrawal” of Russian troops from Ukraine, the dismissal of Vladimir Putin, and his trial as a “war criminal”. Additionally, they are calling for the release of all political prisoners held in Russia. This event will serve as a significant test for the Russian opposition, a movement that has been weakened by years of repression, the death of Alexei Navalny, and recent infighting.
Kremlin’s Response
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the efforts of the Russian opponents, describing them as “monstrously detached from their country” and concluding that their opinion “doesn’t matter”.
Future of the Russian Opposition
The future of the Russian opposition remains uncertain as it continues to face challenges both internally and externally. This demonstration in Berlin marks a significant move for the movement as it seeks to regain its strength and credibility on the international stage.
